therapeutic action: insulin sensitivity improvement

A Review on the Structure and Anti-Diabetic (Type 2) Functions of β-Glucans

β-glucans are special sugar molecules found in foods like mushrooms, oats, and barley that can help control type 2 diabetes. These molecules work by two main methods: slowing down how quickly nutrients are absorbed in the digestive system, and blocking enzymes that break down carbohydrates into sugars. The shape and size of β-glucan molecules are very important—different structures have different effects on blood sugar control.

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Antioxidant activity and phytochemical analysis of different varieties of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) available in Pakistan

Researchers analyzed five varieties of barley grown in Pakistan to determine their nutritional and health benefits. They found that all varieties contained beneficial compounds with antioxidant properties, with Jau-21 performing exceptionally well. These barley varieties are rich in protein, fiber, minerals, and compounds that may help protect against diseases like diabetes and heart disease, making them promising ingredients for developing healthy food products.

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Recent advances in natural polysaccharides for type 2 diabetes management: sources, structural characteristics, and mechanistic insights

Natural polysaccharides from plants, mushrooms, and seaweed show promise as treatments for type 2 diabetes. These complex sugar molecules work through multiple mechanisms including improving how the body uses insulin, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and promoting beneficial gut bacteria. The effectiveness of these polysaccharides depends on their specific chemical structure, particularly their molecular weight and how their sugar units are linked together.

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Hypoglycemic Properties of Leccinum scabrum Extracts—An In Vitro Study on α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase Inhibition and Metabolic Profile Determination

Researchers tested birch bolete mushrooms (Leccinum scabrum) for diabetes-fighting properties. They found that extracts from this edible mushroom were exceptionally effective at blocking enzymes that break down carbohydrates, potentially helping control blood sugar levels. The study identified key beneficial compounds including healthy fats and plant alkaloids, suggesting the mushroom could become a functional food or dietary supplement for managing type-2 diabetes.

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Advancing Nutritional Science: Contemporary Perspectives on Diet’s Role in Metabolic Health and Disease Prevention

This research collection shows how what we eat significantly impacts our metabolic health and ability to prevent diseases. Key findings include that eating more vegetables helps prevent metabolic syndrome in older adults, and certain dietary patterns combined with regular exercise reduce disease risk in young adults. The research also highlights the benefits of natural compounds like inulin and royal jelly for managing metabolic disorders, while emphasizing the importance of personalized nutrition approaches for rare conditions.

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Extraction, Characterization, Biological Properties, and X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Functional Polysaccharides Derived from Limnospira platensis

Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) is a nutrient-dense microalga that contains beneficial polysaccharides with multiple health benefits. Researchers extracted and analyzed these polysaccharides, finding they have strong antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting α-glucosidase enzymes. These compounds also support beneficial gut bacteria growth, making spirulina a promising natural ingredient for functional foods and health supplements.

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The Nearly Complete Genome of Grifola frondosa and Light-Induced Genes Screened Based on Transcriptomics Promote the Production of Triterpenoid Compounds

Researchers sequenced the complete genetic code of maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) and discovered how light exposure influences the production of beneficial compounds called triterpenoids. The high-quality genome assembly revealed 12,526 genes and showed that light triggers specific genes involved in making these medicinal compounds. This breakthrough provides a scientific foundation for growing maitake mushrooms with optimized levels of health-promoting substances.

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Hypoglycemic Effect of Edible Fungi Polysaccharides Depends on Their Metabolites from the Fermentation of Human Fecal Microbiota

Edible mushrooms like Ganoderma lucidum, cordyceps, shiitake, and poria contain beneficial compounds called polysaccharides that may help control blood sugar. When these polysaccharides are digested by beneficial gut bacteria, they produce eight special metabolites that enhance the body’s ability to use glucose and improve insulin sensitivity. The research identified specific bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium and Coprococcus, that produce these beneficial metabolites, suggesting that measuring these markers could help evaluate which mushroom polysaccharides work best for diabetes prevention.

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Gut microbiota-mediated regulation of lipid metabolism by single herbal medicines: a review focused on cold/hot properties

This review examines how traditional Chinese herbal medicines can help regulate lipid metabolism and lower cholesterol by changing the composition of bacteria in our gut. Different herbs have different properties – some are considered cooling and others warming – and these properties affect which gut bacteria they increase or decrease. The review found that herbal medicines work best when matched to a person’s body constitution, and provides a framework for choosing the right herb based on whether someone has a heat-type or cold-type condition.

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A Systematic Review on Important Risk Factors and Possible Involved Mechanisms of Medicinal Plants on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

This comprehensive review examined 43 medicinal plants that can help prevent and treat fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is increasingly common in developed countries. Most of these plants work by reducing cholesterol and triglycerides, helping with weight management, improving blood sugar control, and lowering blood pressure. The plants contain natural compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. Using these herbal supplements alongside other lifestyle changes may offer a promising natural approach to managing NAFLD and its related conditions.

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