A review on the hypoglycemic properties of selected non-leafy vegetables in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose Non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cancers and cardiovascular diseases have become a major health concern globally. As literature claims that frequent consumption of fruits and vegetables can delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and its complications, this paper aims to evaluate the potential hypoglycemic properties in five types of non-leafy vegetables (pumpkin, sweet potato, bitter gourd, onion and lady’s finger), which are commonly available in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach Articles were identified through several main search engines, including Pubmed, Google Scholar, Taylor and Francis Online, EDS, Wiley, ScienceDirect and Scopus. The search was limited to selected keywords to refine the outcome. Findings All the five types of non-leafy vegetables demonstrate hypoglycemic properties to some extent. Emerging findings indicate that there are several phytonutrients in the non-leafy vegetables contributing to the hypoglycemic effects. To date, the underlying mechanism of action remains to be elucidated, although a number of potential mechanisms of action have been proposed in the literature. Originality/value This review provides some insights into the hypoglycemic properties in non-leafy vegetables. In addition, phytonutrients that are responsible for the hypoglycemic effects and their mechanism of action are also highlighted.

Antioxidant, hypoglycemic and anti-hypertensive properties of extracts derived from peel, fruit and kernel of Salak

“…Antioxidant is a non-nutritive compound that has been extensively recognised as an effective free radical scavenger to prevent oxidative stress from the overproduction of reactive oxygen species by neutralising initiating radicals to terminate the chain reaction (Institute of Medicine, 1998). Accumulation of free radicals in the human body can potentially trigger the onset of non-communicable diseases such as cancers, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (Tan and Tan, 2019;Lim et al, 2007).…”

The Anti-Hypertensive and Hypoglycemic Potential of Bioactive Compounds Derived from Pulasan Rind

“…Numerous studies suggest that chronic cellular injury is highly linked to the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including various types of cancers, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus [1]. Having a sufficient amount of bioactive compounds from fruits and vegetables could delay the progress of cellular injury, which may be beneficial in NCDs prevention [2].…”