A recent study found an anti-obesity effect in a variety of squashes and pumpkins.
Over an eight-week trial, mice were fed a high-fat diet and supplemented with PG105, a water soluble derivative of the Cucurbita moschata. Their body weight and fat storage was successfully suppressed with PG105. The overall amount of food intake was not affected. Furthermore, PG105 protected the development of fatty liver and increased the hepatic beta-oxidation activity. Results from blood analysis showed that the levels of triglyceride and cholesterol were significantly lowered by PG105 administration, and also that the level of leptin (excreted by fat cells) was reduced. Adiponectin, the modulator of a number of metabolic processes, including glucose regulation and fatty acid catabolism, was increased.
This remarkable effect on fat metabolism was made possible by the decreased abilities of lipogenic genes (fat-producing) while simultaneously kicking up the lipolytic genes (fat-burning). Since this affected the beta-oxidation of fatty acids, it would presumably create a rise in ketones. If the body can maintain normal blood glucose while producing all these ketones, this might demand consideration that ketosis is not only safe for diabetics, but healthy. I'm anxious to see further research.
Yes folks, that cursed holiday is once again upon us. We each deal with the ritual in our own way. A bucket of candy on the front porch for some, a designated door greeter to toss treats for others, or just simply pretending nobody's home. Whatever your answer to this nutritionally vacant event, we all know it's all about the kids. In search of a few bright ideas for an otherwise brainless act (a little bitter? maybe), here are a few options for diabetics on Halloween.
