A study conducted on mice reveals that these vegetables could improve type 2 diabetes management by regulating blood sugar and rebalancing the intestinal microbiome.
- A study conducted on mice reveals that carrots could improve type 2 diabetes management by regulating blood sugar and rebalancing the intestinal microbiome.
- In rodents fed 10 % carrot powder, researchers observed better glucose tolerance and an increase in bacteria producing short -chain fatty acids, beneficial for health.
- These effects are attributed to bioactive compounds present in carrots, such as Falcarinol. Although these results are promising, clinical trials in humans are necessary to confirm these benefits.
Could carrots play a key role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes? A new study by the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) suggests that these vegetables could improve the regulation of blood sugar and positively influence the composition of intestinal bacteria. The works, published in Clinical and Translational Scienceopen prospects to complete current treatments, often associated with side effects.
The role of carrots on blood sugar regulation
For 16 weeks, mice with type 2 diabetes were nourished with a diet rich in fats, simulating an unhealthy human life mode. Part of them received a diet enriched at 10 % freeze -dried carrot powder. The results are convincing: rodents having consumed carrots have better glucose tolerance, an essential indicator for the regulation of blood sugar.
This improvement is linked to changes in the intestinal microbiome. “Carrots promote a healthier balance of intestinal bacteria. In particular those that produce short chain fatty acids (AGCC), compounds that play a crucial role in energy metabolism and intestinal health”specify researchers in a press release.
If the carrots are so effective, it is because they contain bioactive compounds, such as Falcarinol and Falcarindiol, which improve the capacity of cells to absorb sugar. These substances are also present in other members of the carrot family, such as parsley, celery or parsnips. These compounds, which naturally protect the plant against fungal infections, have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic properties.
Preparation mode: an important factor
According to scientists, the mode of preparation of carrots is very important. Their cooking can reduce the content of beneficial substances, but part of these compounds remains present, even after prolonged cooking. Consuming raw or little cooked carrots seems to be the best option to maximize the benefits.
Although promising, this study was conducted on animal models, and researchers now want to confirm these results in humans. “We work to conduct clinical trials with carrots containing high levels of bioactive compounds. Ultimately, these studies could demonstrate their preventive potential against type 2 diabetes 2” Previous research suggests that consuming 30 to 40 grams of raw or slightly cooked carrots per day could also have beneficial effects on colon cancer.
