Role of functional foods in the management of diabetes mellitus: a concise review

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic conditions characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose and it has become a very common disease among individuals in the world at large today. The rate of incidence of diabetes, even in Nigeria, has risen drastically over the years. Different forms of treatment have been tried and used over the years, including insulin therapy and the use of various medications, although some of these medications are accompanied by side effects. Diabetes mellitus and related conditions have been stated to be treated effectively with several natural products. Functional foods are being utilized to prevent and manage diabetes mellitus because they contain antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, and insulin sensitivity potentials. Since oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance are associated with this disease, these foods can be effective in managing the disease. This review aimed to explain the modes of action of some of these functional foods in managing diabetes.Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, management, functional foods, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory