Jaboticaba peel reduces inflammation and blood sugar in metabolic syndrome

The rind or skin of the jaboticaba berry (Plinia jaboticaba), native to Brazil's Atlantic Forest, is commonly discarded due to its astringency (due to the high levels of tannins that cause an astringent sensation in the mouth), but it may be a powerful ally in the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome, as shown in a paper published in the Journal of Nutrition Research.

A study conducted by scientists from the University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in the state of São Paulo (Brazil) found that inflammation and blood sugar levels improved in obese volunteers and metabolic syndrome, who took 15 grams of jaboticaba peel powder per day for five weeks as a dietary supplement.

"The phenolic compounds and dietary fiber present in jaboticaba peel have the ability to modulate glucose metabolism. We have observed this effect in previous studies. This study aimed to examine the benefits of long-term consumption and showed that the beneficial effect on blood sugar levels extended for the period after eating, that is, postprandial glycemia, blood sugar usually rises after eating even in healthy people, although in such cases it soon returns to normal, interestingly. Because it helps people control this indicator over time and live healthier lives," said Mario Roberto Marostica Junior, the last author of the article and UNICAMP professor, to FAPESP.

The study involved 49 patients with metabolic syndrome and obesity, who were divided into two groups: one took 15 grams of jaboticaba peel powder per day for five weeks, and the other took a placebo. Body weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, metabolic and inflammatory parameters such as interleukin-6 (a marker of obesity and systemic inflammation) were assessed at weeks zero and five, and blood sugar levels were measured regularly.

"The main benefits of taking the supplement were a decrease in postprandial glycemia and a decrease in inflammation. Jaboticaba may not work miracles, but it is a great way to help control blood sugar levels. Of course, it should be used in conjunction with other measures, such as a healthy diet and exercise." exercise," he said.

Bioactive Compounds Phenolic compounds present in jaboticaba peel include anthocyanins, which give the berry its deep purple color and improve glucose metabolism, primarily by stimulating intestinal L cells. "When these substances reach the intestine, they come into contact with L cells, which release a compound called GLP-1 [glucagon-like peptide-1], which in turn causes pancreatic cells to release insulin," he said. P>

Insulin secreted by the pancreas improves the use of glucose. "This is one of the functions of insulin. When it reaches muscle cells, which are the main consumers of glucose, insulin triggers a cascade of signals that promote the transport of glucose into the cell," he said.

Metabolic syndrome is a collection of metabolic and hormonal disorders that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure and blood sugar, abdominal obesity and abnormal triglyceride and HDL cholesterol levels. In the study, 49 participants with metabolic syndrome had at least three of these five disorders.

Obesity is usually associated with abnormally high levels of pro-inflammatory molecules. "It's like constant inflammation in humans. It interferes with the action of insulin, which is why overweight and obese people tend to become insulin resistant. In such cases, insulin is usually produced but does not work properly," he said.

Abnormally high blood sugar levels can lead to type 2 diabetes if not treated with medications and/or healthy habits and weight loss. "Jaboticaba peel supplement reduces interleukin-6 levels, which plays a key role in the development of insulin resistance and promotes inflammation of adipose tissue. Its positive effect on postprandial blood sugar levels and inflammation makes her ally in treating metabolic syndrome," he said.

No one wants to eat jaboticaba peel as is because of its tartness, he admitted, "but this problem can be circumvented by using commercially available extracts and additives."