This is nature’s answer to obesity and diabetes.
A recent study conducted by Memorial University in Newfoundland, Canada, has shed light on the potential health benefits of sea buckthorn, a shrub abundant in coastal areas of Newfoundland. Published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, the study explores the unique nutritional properties of sea buckthorn berries and their possible therapeutic applications, particularly in managing conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
Sea buckthorn berries have garnered attention for their medicinal properties across various cultures, with historical use in Asian and European traditional medicine for ailments like arthritis. Renowned for their antioxidant-rich composition, these berries offer protection against cellular damage induced by free radicals, which are associated with environmental stressors.
Beyond their antioxidant prowess, sea buckthorn berries and leaves have been utilized for their nutritional and pharmaceutical benefits. Recognizing their potential, Canadian authorities introduced sea buckthorn to the country in the early 2000s, buoyed by preliminary research supporting its commercial viability.
Sea buckthorn oil emerges as a notable source of essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, alongside polyphenols, vitamins E, B, and A. Dr. Menka Gupta, a functional medicine expert, underscores the widespread historical use of sea buckthorn berries in traditional medicine for various health concerns, including digestive, cardiovascular, and dermatological issues.
The recent study highlights the promising role of sea buckthorn berries in addressing diabetes and obesity, as observed in laboratory experiments. Registered dietitian Michelle Routhenstein points to the berry’s rich nutritional profile, including vitamins C and E, flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and dietary fiber, which collectively contribute to their potential therapeutic effects by mitigating oxidative damage and inflammation associated with diabetes cells.
Furthermore, sea buckthorn’s antioxidant and fiber content may aid in combating obesity by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby supporting metabolic health and weight management efforts. Dr. Gupta underscores the importance of sea buckthorn in promoting gut health, which in turn may assist in managing diabetes and obesity by enhancing overall metabolic function.
Discussion about this post