Predisposing factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus and the potential protective role of native plants with functional properties

Publication date: February 2019Source: Journal of Functional Foods, Volume 53Author(s): Collise Njume, Osaana Donkor, Andrew J. McAinchAbstractType 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) affects at least 285 million people globally and is at epidemic proportions within Indigenous communities in Australia. This review creates awareness about populations most at risk of T2DM, factors that accelerate rise of the disease and the potential protective role of plants with functional properties including non-native (Moringa oleifera Lam., Momordica charantia L., Panax ginseng L. and Curcuma longa L.) and native Australian (Terminalia ferdinandiana Exell., Smilax australis R. Br. and Xanthorrhoea johnsonni A.T. Lee) plants. While risk factors of age, ethnicity and genetics are hard to control, environmental factors of inactivity, lifestyle and diet have to be meticulously tailored to curb the prevalence of T2DM. Plants with functional properties may be regarded as sources for alternative control measures against T2DM in a bid to alleviate the burden of disease within Indigenous populations and compensate for limitations of current pharmacological strategies.Graphical abstract
Source: Journal of Functional Foods - Category: Nutrition Source Type: research