Type 2 diabetes, traditionally considered a lifelong chronic condition, is now being reevaluated due to recent advancements and growing evidence. It appears that with appropriate interventions and favorable circumstances, it is possible to either reverse the condition or help individuals at risk avoid developing the disease.
The global impact of diabetes is significant, with approximately 37 million people in the United States alone affected, accounting for around 10% of the population. The majority of these cases, about 90-95%, are classified as type 2 diabetes.
While type 2 diabetes has been commonly associated with individuals aged 45 and above, there is a worrying trend of increasing prevalence among younger demographics, including children and adolescents.
Researchers from the University of South Australia have made an intriguing discovery about the potential of sea cucumbers, a popular marine delicacy in Asia, in preventing diabetes. According to their findings, processed dried sea cucumber with salt extracts can effectively inhibit the formation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), compounds associated with an elevated risk of diabetes.
“We know that an accumulation of AGEs is associated with complications of type 2 diabetes, so strategies to prevent this may reduce the risk of developing diabetic complications,” remarks lead author Dr. Permal Deo.
Sea cucumbers are known to possess a range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which led the researchers to explore their potential as AGE inhibitors.
The study demonstrated that processed dried sea cucumber with salt extracts, combined with collagen, significantly inhibits the formation of AGEs by reducing various sugar-related metabolites in the body. This breakthrough provides promising evidence for the role of sea cucumbers in reducing the risk of developing diabetes.
Novel bioactive substances found in medicinal plants and various food items could potentially serve as therapeutic solutions to stave off complications associated with diabetes.
The findings of the study showed “that processed dried sea cucumber with salt extracts and collagen can significantly inhibit AGEs by lowering a range of sugar related metabolites in the body and reducing the risk of diabetes,” notes Dr. Deo.
The research on sea cucumbers highlights the immense potential of natural resources in providing innovative solutions to combat diseases like diabetes. By unlocking the secrets hidden within these marine creatures, scientists are making significant strides in the prevention and treatment of diabetes.
Future steps for the research team involve further exploration of the bioactive compounds present in sea cucumbers and their potential in combating AGEs. These studies hold promise for the development of new therapies and interventions that promote healthier lives and reduce the impact of diabetic complications.
The study conducted by the University of South Australia team sheds light on the remarkable benefits of sea cucumbers, showcasing their potential as a natural remedy for preventing diabetes. By harnessing the power of these ocean dwellers, scientists are opening doors to a healthier future for individuals at risk of developing diabetes and its associated complications.
The results were published in the Institute of Food Science and Technology.
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