Based
on these studies, SalaretinÒ
is potentially useful in supporting the maintenance of blood glucose
levels and may be beneficial in slowing down the progression of secondary
complications of diabetes. Preliminary studies also support the beneficial
role of mangiferin in reducing insulin resistance and in the maintenance
of healthy blood lipid profiles.
Obesity
is an important factor in the progression of diabetes complications,
particularly in type 2 diabetes. A strong correlation exists between
abdominal obesity and the incidence of non-insulin dependent diabetes
mellitus due to the decreased peripheral insulin receptors. Conventional
alpha-glucosidase inhibitors such as the anti-diabetic drugs Acarbose
and Voglibose (AO-128) are suggested to be useful in preventing obesity,
as evidenced by animal model studies. Further, moderate
exercise increases the number of peripheral insulin receptors as well
as glucose transporter proteins.
Recent
laboratory data reveal that SalaretinÒ
efficiently inhibits alpha-amylase, suggesting that the extract is a
"starch blocker". An amylase inhibitor acts as an anti-nutrient
that obstructs the digestion of starch and absorption of glucose. Therefore
amylase inhibitors are therapeutically valued in conditions such as
diabetes (to reduce blood sugar levels) and in weight management. One
of the conventionally used drugs in the management of diabetes, Acarbose,
is a complex oligosaccharide that delays the digestion of carbohydrates,
thereby resulting in a smaller rise in blood glucose concentration following
food intake. Acarbose inhibits the action of pancreatic amylase in breaking
down starch, thereby achieving this effect.
In view of these findings, SalaretinÒ
is potentially useful in obesity management as well as in the management
of Type II diabetes, when coupled with moderate exercise. Thus SalaretinÒ
offers multi-faceted benefits to support diabetes management.
