New superfood may help with diabetes and obesity

By Sharin Hussain via SWNS

A simple berry could be the new superfood, in managing diabetes and obesity, research reveals.

The sea buckthorn berry is a rich source of natural antioxidants, rich in omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins A, B, E and polyphenols.

Researchers at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada, analyzed their unique nutritional profile and their commercial potential as a bioactive-loaded superfood.

First author, Dr. Renan Danielski said: “This is a first step in understanding how sea buckthorn polyphenols can modulate our physiology in a beneficial manner."

In Canada, the plant was introduced in the early 2000s following research by governmental agencies on the crop's commercial potential.

Dr. Danielski said: "Sea buckthorn is a unique crop with vast potential for utilization.

"Popular in Asia and North-Western Europe, there is an opportunity to replicate this success in North America by leveraging the unique qualities of locally grown varieties.’

The study, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, reveals the characteristic composition of polyphenols, a class of compounds with antioxidative properties.

Professor Fereidoon Shahidi said: “Understanding how our cultivar compares globally can help communicate the benefits to consumers and establish a market presence.”

The study highlights the presence of key polyphenolic compounds in sea buckthorn pomace and seeds with health benefits ranging from cardiovascular protection to anti-inflammatory properties.

Researchers identified several distinct compounds with enhanced bioactivity which are only contained in the sea buckthorn cultivar grown in Newfoundland compared to other regions.

The sea buckthorn extracts demonstrated promising in vitro antidiabetic and anti-obesity potential, paving the way for further investigation into their mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications.

As consumer interest in functional foods and “nutraceuticals” continues to grow, sea buckthorn presents itself as a sustainable and health-enhancing option.

Dr. Danielski added: “Future research needs to focus on understanding the mechanisms behind those effects and further experimentation using animal models and humans.

"If these effects are confirmed in vivo, we can envision the use of sea buckthorn polyphenols for therapeutic and pharmacological purposes, aiding in the prevention and treatment of diabetes, obesity, and many other conditions.”