Cashew seeds can help fight against diabetes

Written by Sade Oguntola Thursday, 22 July 2010

In what is best described as a proof of the effectiveness of cashew tree products in diabetes, scientists studying its natural components have postulated that it might be a cure for diabetes probably in the future.

Scientists at the University of Montreal and the University of Yaoundé in Cameroon studying how cashew products affected the responses of rat liver cells to insulin found out that only the cashew seed extract increased the absorption of blood sugar by muscle cells.

The cashew tree is native to northeastern Brazil and in other countries that are in the southern hemisphere.

It is known that when the body fails to respond well to insulin and/or does not produce enough of the hormone, then a person may display high blood sugar levels and develop diabetes. Throughout the world, around 220 million people are suffering from diabetes.

In some people with diabetes, a condition called insulin resistance prevents the body from processing the hormone, which regulates energy and the processing of sugars in the body. Lack of insulin can lead to heart or kidney diseases over time.
Medical experts say that risk factors for developing diabetes include family history, being overweight, leading an inactive lifestyle, and high blood pressure.
For many years, cashew tree products are believed to be effective anti-inflammatory agents, counter high blood sugar and prevent insulin resistance among diabetics.
This research study published in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, no doubt ascertain that the best part of the plant to use in the treatment of diabetes should be the cashew seeds rather than its other parts such as the leaves, barks and apples.

The cashew seed is the nut that grows at the end of the apple, and contains oleic acid the healthy ingredient in olive oil, as well as minerals like copper, zinc, phosphorous and magnesium which can reduce the risk of the metabolic syndrome that contributes to diabetes development. It is also a source of B vitamins, protein, fibre, antioxidants and low saturated fat.

For now, experts say that exercising, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a healthy, balanced diet are among the best ways to prevent diabetes and control blood sugar levels naturally.

However, it was hoped the research will lead to new diabetes treatments in no short distance from now.

http://www.tribune.com.ng/index.php/natural-health/8565-cashew-seeds-can-help-fight-against-diabetes

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