Fruit Compounds Could Be Used to Treat Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and CVD

A supplement consisting of compounds derived from red grapes and oranges may offer a promising new treatment for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Researchers investigated the effects of a compound called trans-resveratrol (tRES), found in red grapes, and a compound found in oranges called hesperetin (HESP). The team found that participants with a BMI of more than 27.5 who took a supplement with these compounds experienced a reduction in insulin levels, improved insulin activity, better artery function, and reduced blood vessel inflammation. Study leader Dr. Paul Thornalley adds, “This is an incredibly exciting development and could have a massive impact on our ability to treat these diseases. As well as helping to treat diabetes and heart disease it could defuse the obesity time bomb.” Diabetes, May 2016