Protective Effect of Inulin and the Integrity of the Microvasculature in Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Type 2 diabetic microangiopathy affects every organ in the body and can lead to serious incapacitating complications. VLDL and apo C1 are two of the main biochemical abnormalities which start and propagate this condition. Inulin fructans prebiotic effect on the colonic flora enhance the bifidogenic strains. These predominate over the pathogenic strains which encourage lipidogenesis, thus reducing hyperlipidemia. Our aim is to find out the possible effect of inulin ingestion on the metabolism of VLDL and apo C1 and their role in the pathogenesis of diabetic angiopathy Twenty eight obese type 2 diabetic female patients were subjected to this study. Each patient ingested 4 grams of inulin daily for 3 weeks. Their fasting serum level of VLDL and apo C1 were estimated before and after the period of inulin ingestion. There was a significant decrease in fasting level of serum VLDL and apo C 1 after inulin ingestion period. In conclusion inulin can be given as a protective and as an add on therapy for type 2 diabetic patients. It reduces two of the main culprits which start and propagate the pathologic pathway of diabetic microangiopathy. This cuts short the other offenders (small HDL, small dense LDL and the small VLDL remnants).