Grapes and Oranges Contain Compound to Control Diabetes

It's no secret that chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are on the rise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the United States, an estimated 117 million people are living with one or more chronic conditions. And this can have a major impact on your health, quality of life, and longevity. But is there anything you can do about it?

Your diet, exercise habits, genetics, and other lifestyle factors all play a part in preventing or developing a chronic disease. Higher doses of a compound found in grapes and oranges, may also help cut your risk for chronic disease, or manage your condition if you already have one.

In a recent study, researchers found that when people received a supplemental dose of two compounds (trans-resveratrol in red grapes and hesperetin found in oranges), people responded positively. It helped reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. And it improved heart health by decreasing inflammation and improving artery function. That means eating grapes and oranges is good for diabetes and controlling your blood sugar levels.

Can you just eat more grapes and oranges to get these benefits? No. Patients in the study required high-level doses of the compounds in supplement form for eight weeks to see improvements in blood sugar levels and heart health. Researchers are currently working on a developing a partnership with a pharmaceutical company to make the supplement for over-the-counter or prescription use.

Researchers also pointed out that simply taking a supplement isn't enough to protect your health when you have diabetes or another chronic disease. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet will help, too.

Need help figuring out how to eat healthy and manage diabetes? Check out the selection of Diabetic-Friendly meals made from fresh ingredients that only take minutes to prepare.