Recent Diabetes Treatment? Study Identifies Aquatic Plant That May Lower Blood Sugar

A balanced diet moneyed in plant-based nutrients is key not only to reducing the risk of diabetes but also to controlling blood sugar levels in people with the condition. But could the aquatic plant be used as a treatment for diabetes? Scientists have found that supplementing with Mankai, a cultivated duckweed, after meals can lend a hand lower blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

Mankai, a protein-rich green plant that naturally grows in water, is now cultivated under controlled conditions. It is known for its beneficial properties, supporting blood vessel and brain health, reducing abdominal and liver fat, and positively affecting the microbiome.

In a recent study conducted in Israel, researchers examined the effects of Mankai consumption on postprandial blood sugar levels in 45 adults with type 2 diabetes. Results from the 4-week study indicated that Mankai offered comparable benefits to some glucose-lowering medications.

“Nutrition plays a key role in both the development and treatment of diabetes. Including Mankai in your diet can improve blood sugar control and provide beneficial nutrients that support overall health,” said Professor Amir Tirosh, author of the study in press release.

During the study, participants were randomly assigned to consume 300 ml of Mankai or an equivalent amount of water after dinner for two weeks. After that period, they switched interventions for another two weeks. Participants’ blood sugar levels were continuously monitored using glucose sensors and confirmed by standard laboratory tests.

Drinking Mankai after dinner led to about a 20% reduction in postprandial blood sugar levels, time to peak blood sugar levels, and time to return to baseline. This beneficial effect was noted in about two-thirds of participants.

“Consumption of mankai can attenuate the postprandial glycemic response in individuals with type 2 diabetes, resulting in ~20% improvement in glycemic values. These results provide case-study evidence for plant-based treatments for type 2 diabetes that complement well lifestyle and drug therapy,” the researchers wrote in test published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.

“The study shows that consuming Mankai after meals can lead to significant reductions in blood sugar levels. This finding introduces a promising recent option for treating diabetes and reducing its complications,” said Dr. Gal Tsaban.

“These results underscore the potential of Mankai as a valuable tool for diabetes management and warrant further investigation,” added Prof. Iris Shai.