A groundbreaking clinical trial has revealed that consuming Mankai after meals can significantly reduce blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
Mankai is a nutrient-dense, aquatic plant from the duckweed family rich in protein, dietary fibre, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
The study found that Mankai’s ability to lower blood sugar is comparable to that of some medications used for diabetes management.
For those living with type 2 diabetes, high blood sugar levels after meals present serious health risks, often exacerbated by insulin resistance, which diminishes insulin’s effectiveness in muscles and the liver.
Persistent high blood sugar can lead to damage in blood vessels, affect the peripheral nervous system, and increase the risk of severe complications such as heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, blindness, and reduced sensation in the extremities.
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They explored the effects of Mankai on post-meal blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Results from the study showed that drinking a Mankai beverage after dinner resulted in an approximate 20% reduction in post-meal blood sugar levels, lower peak sugar levels, and a quicker return to baseline levels.
The beneficial effect was observed in about two-thirds of the participants.
The trial included 45 participants with diabetes and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels between 6.5% and 8.5%.
Participants were randomly assigned to consume either a 300 ml Mankai drink or an equivalent volume of water after dinner for two weeks, followed by a switch in interventions for another two weeks.
Blood sugar levels were continuously monitored using glucose sensors and standard laboratory tests throughout the study.
Mankai, which naturally grows in water and is now cultivated under controlled conditions, has shown potential in previous studies for improving vascular and brain health, reducing abdominal and liver fat, and positively influencing the microbiome.
Early research also indicates that Mankai may help lower post-meal blood sugar levels even in individuals without diabetes.
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The study was led by Prof. Amir Tirosh from Sheba Medical Centre, alongside Dr. Gal Tsaban and Prof. Iris Shai from Ben-Gurion University.
Dr. Gal Tsaban noted, “The study demonstrates that consuming Mankai after meals can lead to significant reductions in blood sugar levels.
“This finding introduces a promising new option for managing diabetes and reducing associated complications.”
Prof. Iris Shai added, “These results highlight the potential of Mankai as a valuable tool for diabetes management and warrant further investigation.”
Prof. Amir Tirosh concluded, “Nutrition plays a crucial role in both the development and management of diabetes. Incorporating Mankai into the diet can enhance blood sugar control and provide beneficial nutrients that support overall health.”
The study has been published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.
