Effect of daily supplementation of fruits on oxidative stress indices and glycaemic status in type 2 diabetes mellitus

This study sought to examine whether consumption of two low-calorie fruit/day for 3-months can effectively improve oxidative stress, anthropometry, blood pressure and glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Study involved 123 patients who were assigned to receive either standard care or with additional dietary therapy. Dietary intervention resulted in significant reduction in malondialdehyde, plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin and improvement in antioxidants like vitamin C and reduced glutathione when compared to controls. Mean plasma levels of vitamin C increased by 64% (p < 0.001). There were no differences in waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, blood pressure, vitamin E and superoxide dismutase in the intervention group at follow-up. Diet rich in fruits can improve some antioxidants which are likely to reduce oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes. Regular consumption of fruits can lower the glycaemic status in these patients. The study supports the usefulness of plasma vitamin C as a biomarker for fruit intake. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.