Role of different nutraceuticals in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM): a literature review

Abstract

The objective of this research was to evaluate current knowledge of the role that some nutraceuticals play in the administration of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treatment strategies. The information was compiled via an online search of the databases of PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar. Nutraceuticals play a significant part in the prevention and treatment of a wide variety of illnesses and disorders and, as a result, enhance general health and longevity. This article summarises and discusses some of the most notable studies on nutraceuticals used as anti-diabetic agents for T2DM. Table 1 summarises 18 studies involving approximately 21 nutraceuticals. Most of the studies cited suggest that the consumption of various nutraceuticals (such as L-carnitine, myo-inositol, d-chiro, and folic acid twice daily, mulberry flavonoids, and mulberry alkaloids) significantly decrease fasting blood glucose and HbA1c (p<0.05). Only a small number of nutraceuticals, including alpha-lipoic acid and resistant dextrin, have been demonstrated to reduce fasting plasma glucose, haemoglobin A1c, and C-reactive protein levels in people with T2DM (p<0.05). To better understand the function of diverse nutraceuticals and support evidence-based therapy recommendations, which have already been proven to have a considerable influence on T2DM, further clinical trials with larger sample sizes and appropriate methodologies are required.