Glycemic benefits of a bitter melon-based multi-herbal extract supplement in adults predisposed to metabolic syndrome
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31989/ffhd.v16i1.1834Abstract
Background: Herbal plants are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds that contribute to health promotion and are associated with a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome. However, evidence from human clinical trials remains limited and inconsistent, particularly regarding the combined effects of multiple herbal species.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of consuming a dietary supplement containing extracts from various medicinal herbs on nutritional status, blood pressure, and key biochemical markers in adults predisposed to metabolic syndrome.
Methods: A total of 70 adult participants aged 30-59 years who were at risk of metabolic syndrome were enrolled in a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: the experimental group (n=35), which received a bitter melon–based multi-herbal extract supplement (BMMH), and the placebo group (n=35). Pre-and post-intervention outcomes were compared, including waist circumference, body composition, glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and inflammatory biomarkers. Dietary intake and physical activity were also assessed.
Results: All seventy participants completed the study. After 12 weeks, participants who consumed BMMH extract supplement exhibited significant reductions in fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels (p = 0.011 and p = 0.036, respectively). In addition, a significant decrease in the LDL-C to HDL-C ratio was observed (p = 0.014), whereas no comparable changes occurred in the placebo group. No statistically significant effects were observed for other lipid parameters or inflammatory markers, including IL-6, TNF-α, and hs-CRP.
Conclusion: Bioactive compounds present in medicinal herbs, particularly bitter melon, may support glucose homeostasis by enhancing glucose utilization and thereby reducing blood glucose levels. These compounds may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Thus, consumption of dietary supplements derived from herbal extracts may serve as a supportive factor in improving metabolic syndrome outcomes and potentially preventing the development of non-communicable diseases.
Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry TCTR20241122004
Keywords: functional foods, bioactive compounds, bitter melon, fasting blood glucose, metabolic syndrome
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