Type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition marked by unstable blood sugar levels, poses serious health risks if unmanaged. Diet plays a crucial role in controlling these glucose levels, and recent research points to a familiar vegetable with promising benefits.
A study presented at The Endocrine Society’s 97th annual meeting in San Diego has revealed that onion extract (Allium cepa) can reduce elevated blood sugar levels by as much as 50% in diabetic rats. Type 2 diabetes arises when the pancreas either produces insufficient insulin or when the body’s cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood glucose.
This breakthrough finding emerged from experiments conducted by researchers at Delta State University, Nigeria. Lead researcher Dr. Anthony Ojieh and his team administered metformin combined with varying doses of onion extract (200mg, 400mg, and 600mg per kilogram of body weight daily) to groups of diabetic rats. Their aim was to evaluate whether onion extract could enhance the effectiveness of the common anti-diabetic drug metformin.
READ MORE: Broken Street Lights Highlight Urgent Need to Crack Down on ‘Fleeceholds’
READ MORE: The Repair Shop Expert Faces Frustration Over Woodworm Damage
The study included control groups of diabetic and non-diabetic rats receiving no treatment, as well as groups given only metformin. Results demonstrated that doses of 400mg and 600mg of onion extract significantly lowered fasting blood sugar by 50% and 35%, respectively, in diabetic rats, compared to baseline levels before treatment.
Interestingly, onion extract prompted weight gain in non-diabetic rats, possibly due to an increased metabolic rate enhancing appetite, though diabetic rats showed no such effect. Dr. Ojieh noted, “Onion is not high in calories, but it appears to stimulate metabolism and feeding.”
While the exact mechanism by which onion reduces blood glucose remains unclear, the extract used in the study was derived directly from onion bulbs commonly found in supermarkets. For human application, the extract would likely undergo purification to isolate active compounds for accurate dosing.
Health experts like the NHS emphasize a balanced diet and regular physical activity as key measures for managing blood sugar and overall health. Vegetables like onions are recommended as part of this healthy diet, alongside minimizing sugar, fat, and salt intake.
As always, individuals with diabetes or concerns about blood sugar should consult their healthcare providers for personalized advice and treatment.