Propolis extract supplementation in the complementary treatment of adults and elderly with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: a systematic review of clinical trial

Abstract

Background & aims: bee products, such as propolis, have important natural properties to help reduce the risk of chronic noncommunicable diseases. Therefore, the objective of this review was to determine whether propolis intake helps to improve laboratory and anthropometrics indicators related to metabolic changes in type 2 Diabetes mellitus. Methods: systematic review of randomized clinical trials, published between 2000 and 2021, in Pubmed, Lilacs and SciELO databases, which indicated significant effects of propolis on laboratory indicators related to glycemic homeostasis, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory status. The articles were obtained according to the model recommended by PRISMA. After general analysis, protocols were used to assess the quality of evidence, using the Jadad scale, Consort and Cochrane. Results: glycemic homeostasis was evaluated using the following laboratory indicators: HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, fructosamine, fasting glucose and glycated hemoglobin. Significant changes in fasting glucose, 2-hour postprandial glucose were indicated in 71.43% of the studies. The antioxidant potential of propolis was evaluated in 71.43% of clinical trials. There was a significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, an increase in catalase activity and an increase in the antioxidant capacity of glutathione. The lipid profile was analyzed in 42.86% of the studies, indicating significant changes in total, LDL and HDL cholesterol. Conclusion: propolis can be considered an aggregating alternative for the conventional treatment of type 2 Diabetes mellitus. However, this food supplement is not a “miraculous” product, which eliminates the need for changes in lifestyle, including eating habits and regular physical activity, as well as the use of drugs, when necessary.