A person’s blood sugar level is a very important indicator of his overall well-being.  For people with chronically high levels of glucose (sugar) in his blood, the diagnosis of diabetes is normally given.  The problem lies in the fact that the condition, if left untreated, may produce damage to the blood vessels, which in turn increases one’s predisposition to developing complications such as stroke, heart failure, hypertension, heart attack, neuropathies, as well as eye and kidney diseases.

This is the reason why medical professionals are always keen on advising diabetic patients, or even non-diabetic ones, to keep their blood glucose levels at bay.

A study conducted by a team of researchers from the Università degli Studi di Milano in Italy have shown that gamma-conglutin, a glycoprotein which accounts for approximately four percent of the lupin seed’s total protein, may reduce a person’s blood glucose levels, prompting the researchers to say that lupin seeds have anti-diabetic effects. This is because of the glycoprotein’s ability to cross the intestinal barrier effectively.

The team, headed by Jessica Capraro , said that the anti-diabetic properties of lupin seeds are attributed to be represented by experimental findings, although the dietary protein’s exact mechanism of action is far from being understood yet. The results of the study were published in Food Chemistry.

What is Lupin?

Lupin, a major grain legume that is being grown in Australia, is used primarily for feeding some animals. However, since the year 2001, lupin bran, along with flour, has been used as an alternative for food formulations for cereal grains that are very expensive. It is also recognized as an existing substitute for soy since it can also grow from temperate to cool climates and has seeds that have full range of the needed amino acids. Its average protein content is over 30 percent only, which is quite low when compared to soy beans with protein content ranging from 44 to 48 percent.

Lupin flour, in Europe, is already being used in pasta products and bakeries. Its other potential uses are for crunchy snacks and cereals, baby formulas, salads, and soups.

What did the study reveal?

In both human and animal studies regarding glucose levels, the researchers said that gamma-conglutin is the only identified protein which has obtained a significant response by decreasing blood glucose levels.

A research previously conducted shows that orally-administered gamma-conglutin has two major biological responses: rats showed an immuno-competent reaction and a reduction in blood glucose concentration was seen in both human and animal subjects. The authors also reported that the glycoprotein has been found to show insulin-mimicking activities in myocyte models. However, the authors emphasized that the absorption by the intestinal epithelium of gamma-conglutin has never been studied in the previous years even though it is a pre-requisite for the biological activity’s elicitation.

On the other hand, a new research was conducted, which was aimed at assessing the transit of gamma-conglutin through the intestine using the ex vitro and in vitro tissue and cell models, respectively. The approach called in vitro illustrates that the unbroken protein has the ability to travel starting from the top up to the side of the gut’s cell layers. Researchers suggest that more studies should be conducted in order to fully understand the why’s and how’s of lupin, in order for people to take advantage of its offered health benefits.

Natural foods that help lower the blood sugar level

Contrary to what most people think, anti-diabetic drugs are not the only solution to high blood glucose levels.  There are other natural means of lowering excessive blood sugar – and it is as simple as choosing what to eat.  Below are some food choices you can wisely make.  Eat:

• Low-glycemic foods that are being digested slowly by the body such as oatmeal, beans, and peas. Do not go for high-glycemic foods, such as biscuits, pancakes, doughnuts, white bread and potatoes, since they are quickly converted into glucose.
  
  
• Avocadoes. While other fruits gain more sugar as they ripen, the sugar level of avocadoes decreases as they mature. It has high amounts of soluble fiber and monounsaturated fats, which helps the body increase its sensitivity towards insulin. They help minimize the increase in blood sugar level after big meals.
  
  
• Sweet Potatoes. Their glycemic index value is lower compared to other regular potatoes since sweet potatoes have high fiber content. Carotenoids, one of its components, are powerful antioxidants and it renders a positive effect on the insulin level. Their beta carotene and soluble fiber content helps regulate the response of insulin and, at the same time, helps in stabilizing blood sugar. In addition, sweet potatoes are also helpful in reducing cholesterol.
  
  
• Nuts. These slow-burning foods offer sustained energy coming from their fats and protein content. It can lower the resistance of insulin and the risk of developing diabetes, and also aids in detoxifying the body through the metabolism process.
  
  
• Cherries. These are rich in fiber and low in calorie content. Their red-pigmented antioxidants help in raising the insulin output and protect the body against heart problems, diabetes, and cancer.
  
  
• Onions. A significant reduction in the blood sugar level is caused by the flavonoid and the sulfur content of onions.
  
  
• Lemons. Since these are rich in Vitamin C, their acidic property reduces the food’s glycemic index. Moreover, they contain lowering properties for cholesterol and are also considered to be anti-cancer.
  
  
• Flax seeds. These are rich in fiber and healthy fats which are believed to play a role in reducing blood sugar levels. It is also a good source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 acids which also help control the blood sugar level. In addition, it helps block estrogen’s negative effect thereby preventing cancer. Aside from lowering the blood sugar level, the fiber content of flax seed is also helpful in the lowering of cholesterol and losing weight.
  
  
• Garlic. While lowering blood sugar, it increases insulin production and, at the same time, the sensitivity of insulin.
  
  
• Barley. It has a content which lowers cholesterol. Moreover, it reduces the glycemic index of other foods added to it.
  
  
• Cinnamon is a common spice that contains several compounds which are capable of reducing bad cholesterol levels. Due to its high content of fiber and being a source of magnesium, it helps in controlling blood sugar levels. Moreover, it also makes insulin act more effectively.
  
  
• Vinegar. When added to a meal having simple carbohydrates and containing a high level of starch content, vinegar will decrease the blood sugar levels and the after-meal insulin spike is minimized. The acids present in vinegar are responsible for lowering the glucose levels in the body.
  
  
• Water. It can flush away the harmful toxins present in the body while reducing blood sugar levels.

Sources
nutraingredients.com
netdoctor.co.uk
fatfreekitchen.com
livestrong.com