Alleviation of diabetes induced dyslipidemia by Lagenaria siceraria fruit extract in human type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Patients with diabetes mellitus have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, a reduction in all cardiovascular risks such as dyslipidemia, hypertension and being over-weight is advisable. Plants or their extracts such as Lagenaria siceraria (Bottle gourd) may have a potential therapeutic role in the treatment of diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the neutraceutical potential of bottle gourd juice in the management of human diabetes and associated dyslipidemia. The study involved the administration of freshly prepared bottle gourd juice (200ml) to 100 human participants (diabetic patients n=50; healthy volunteers n=50) on an empty stomach for 90 consecutive days. Biochemical markers of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism plus kidney and liver functions were monitored at monthly intervals during the course of bottle gourd juice administration.A notable reduction in blood glucose levels plus a significant reduction in total cholesterol (17.8%), serum triglycerides (16–22%), LDL-c (22.2%) and a considerable decrease in VLDL-c was observed in diabetic subjects on juice therapy. Anthropometric evaluation remained more or less unchanged. Bottle gourd juice administration contributed to significant elevations in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in both diabetic (40.5%) as well as normal healthy subjects. An appreciable improvement in GSH levels (9% elevation) of diabetic subjects (P<0.001) was also recorded. A significant change in TBARS level in diabetic subjects and a considerable improvement in liver and kidney function were also observed. These results indicate that L. siceraria juice may be used as an alternative and adjunctive treatment in disorders associated with carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.