Health Benefits of Mulberries

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The health benefits of mulberries are supported by a growing body of scientific evidence. Mulberry leaf extract and fruit have shown potential in managing blood glucose levels, improving lipid profiles, and promoting gastrointestinal health. These findings suggest that mulberries could be a valuable addition to dietary regimens aimed at preventing and managing chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Mulberries, derived from the Morus genus, have been traditionally used in various cultures for their medicinal properties. Recent scientific studies have provided evidence supporting the health benefits of mulberries, particularly in the areas of glycemic control, lipid profile improvement, and gastrointestinal health. This article explores these benefits in detail.

Glycemic Control

Mulberry Leaf Extract and Blood Glucose Levels

Mulberry leaf extract has shown promising results in managing blood glucose levels. A study involving healthy subjects demonstrated that a single dose of mulberry leaf extract taken with a test meal significantly decreased starch digestion and absorption, leading to improved postprandial glycemic control1. Another study found that mulberry leaf extract significantly reduced the glycemic and insulinaemic responses to sucrose in healthy individuals, suggesting its potential as a dietary supplement for maintaining healthy blood glucose levels6.

Impact on Type 2 Diabetes

In patients with type 2 diabetes, mulberry leaf extract has been shown to decrease post-prandial blood glucose levels significantly. A randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study reported a 16.1% reduction in post-prandial blood glucose levels after three months of mulberry leaf extract supplementation4. Additionally, another study found that mulberry leaves could reduce fasting plasma glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels in obese individuals with borderline diabetes, indicating its potential for glycemic control without serious side effects8.

Lipid Profile Improvement

Effects on Hypercholesterolemia

Mulberries have been found to positively affect lipid profiles, particularly in hypercholesterolemic subjects. A study on hypercholesterolemic rats showed that mulberry fruit consumption significantly increased total antioxidant capacity and decreased levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL, while increasing HDL levels2. Similarly, a randomized controlled trial in hypercholesterolemic humans found that mulberry fruit consumption significantly decreased total cholesterol and LDL-C levels, suggesting its potential as an alternative therapy for hypercholesterolemia5.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Mulberry leaves and their major flavonol, quercetin 3-(6-malonylglucoside), have been shown to attenuate atherosclerotic lesion development in LDL receptor-deficient mice. This effect is attributed to the enhancement of LDL resistance to oxidative modification, highlighting the antioxidative and antiatherogenic properties of mulberry leaves9.

Gastrointestinal Health

Prevention of Constipation

Mulberry fruit has also been studied for its effects on gastrointestinal health. A study on mice with diphenoxylate-induced constipation found that mulberry treatment increased fecal water content, promoted gastric evacuation, and increased gastrointestinal transit rate. These effects were accompanied by changes in gut microbiota, including increased abundance of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium3.