superfood that could help fight type 2 diabetes - blackcurrant
superfood that could help fight type 2 diabetes - blackcurrant photorama - Pixabay

Type 2 diabetes affects millions of people around the world. In the United States, more than 30 million Americans suffer from diabetes, and a staggering 90 to 95 percent fall under Type 2. With so many suffering from the disease, many studies have been established. These studies focused on prevention and management. One recent study revealed that eating one dark-colored superfood could effectively prevent its onset and at the same time, manage it optimally.

The Superfood

According to research in New Zealand, one type of blackcurrant can effectively help individuals manage Type 2 diabetes. The researchers noted that the onset of Type 2 diabetes was closely linked to a sedentary and inactive lifestyle. In the UK alone, more than one-third of adults were sedentary. The inability to engage in an active lifestyle has increased the number of Type 2 diabetes patients.

So, where does this specific type of blackcurrant come in? Since many people find it hard to exercise due to “tiredness,” this blackcurrant grown in the Southern Hemisphere of New Zealand can help boost their energy levels before exercising. It will also sustain them for a longer duration.

According to the experts, this specific type of blackcurrant would help adults walk longer without really getting tired. The supplement must be taken an hour before the actual exercise since its effects are felt an hour after.

As per Dr. Suzanne Hurst, the lead author of the study, by identifying foods or supplements that could provide support to the desire to exercise, patients would be able to adhere to a healthy and active lifestyle. The moment they start to engage in physical activities, they would also be able to manage Type 2 diabetes effectively.

Aside from sustaining the adults to do exercises, the supplement was also shown to help reduce the risk of developing depression and dementia.

Blackcurrant Properties

What makes blackcurrant a superfood is its anthocyanins. This is the pigment found in the skin of the fruit, which possesses a high level of antioxidants. Anthocyanins belong to “polyphenols,” known for its antioxidant properties.

This also helps in lowering the activity of monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B). The activity of MAO-B has been linked with dementia, and therefore, a low activity was also believed to fight the neurological disease.