The role of pure honey in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

Today, there are approximately 415 million diabetics worldwide. It is expected to increase to nearly 642 million in 2040. The incidence of type 2 diabetes Mellitus in these patients is 90%. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a disease could not be provided definite improvement, although there have been numerous scientific studies on its treatment for many years. Recently, similar to the treatment for other diseases, the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus is being tested using alternative medicinal methods. One of the alternative methods is the application of pure honey. The main sweeteners in honey are fructose and glucose. The absorption of fructose in the gastrointestinal tract is slower than glucose, and metabolism of fructose occurs independently from insulin. Many studies have shown that honey has antioxidant effects, as well as healing properties for wounds. However, only few studies have examined the effects of honey on the biochemistry values in diabetics. Our aim was to improve the lipid profile and blood glucose regulation in adult patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus using metformin, by administering pure honey with appropriate dosage. Three different doses were utilized to determine the optimal dosage and were applied to case groups for 4 months with regular tracking of the parameters. After 4 months, a significant reduction in HbA1c levels was observed in all dosage groups where honey was consumed. Moreover, a decrease in total cholesterol was noted in individuals who consumed honey in doses of 5 to 25 g.