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A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients highlight the therapeutic potential of certain spices and aromatic herbs commonly found in the Mediterranean diet for improving glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Led by Maria Carmen Garza, PhD, from the Department of Human Anatomy and Histology at the University of Zaragoza, Spain, the study underscores the significant impact of ginger, cinnamon, and black cumin on fasting glucose levels.
Methodology: The comprehensive analysis encompassed 77 studies, of which 45 involving 3050 participants were included in the meta-analysis, while 32 studies were part of the systematic review. The criteria for inclusion were studies involving adult patients with type 2 diabetes, supplementation with specific herbs and spices, and data on fasting glucose, A1c, and insulin levels.
Key Findings: Among the herbs and spices studied, including cinnamon, curcumin, ginger, black cumin, saffron, and rosemary, ginger, black cumin, and cinnamon demonstrated the most significant effects on fasting glucose levels. Supplementation with black cumin led to the most substantial decreases in fasting glucose, followed by cinnamon and ginger. Notably, ginger and black cumin were associated with improvements in A1c levels, while only cinnamon and ginger were linked to decreased insulin values.
In Practice: The authors emphasized the Mediterranean diet’s role in managing metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes, with certain spices and herbs offering therapeutic benefits. Ginger emerged as particularly promising, showcasing significant improvements across all three glycemic parameters studied. However, further research is warranted to explore the effects of other Mediterranean diet ingredients such as clove, parsley, thyme, black pepper, rosemary, basil, and oregano on glycemic profiles.
Implications: The study underscores the potential of incorporating specific spices and herbs into dietary interventions for individuals with type 2 diabetes. By leveraging the therapeutic properties of these natural ingredients, clinicians and patients may enhance glycemic control and overall metabolic health.
Limitations and Disclosures: While the findings are compelling, the authors acknowledge several limitations, including variations in study quality and the inability to determine optimal dosages for the herbs and spices studied. Additionally, factors such as changes in body weight and lifestyle interventions may influence glycemic outcomes. The authors disclosed no conflicts of interest.
This groundbreaking study sheds light on the therapeutic potential of spices and herbs in managing type 2 diabetes, offering new avenues for dietary interventions and personalized treatment strategies.
