Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the body cannot effectively utilize insulin, despite its sufficient secretion by the pancreas. This condition represents an extreme form of insulin resistance, during which glucose is not properly absorbed by body tissues, leading to hyperglycemia.

In the management of type 2 diabetes, the primary therapeutic approach is the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. A critical component in achieving this goal is adherence to a proper diet. In addition to specialized pharmacological therapy, careful attention to diet, including the selection of appropriate fruits, plays a significant role in maintaining balanced blood glucose levels.

A common question among patients with this condition concerns the inclusion of grapes in their diet, which is a topic of relevance. Grapes are widely recognized as a sweet and juicy fruit, with their sugar content predominantly in the form of glucose. It is estimated that one kilogram of grapes, depending on the variety, may contain up to 300 grams or more of sugar.

Modern research indicates that the consumption of grapes can have a beneficial impact on the progression of diabetes. This assertion is supported by the discovery that grapes contain not only essential vitamins (C and K) and minerals such as potassium and manganese, but also the significant antioxidant resveratrol.

Grapes, particularly the skin of red and purple varieties, are notably rich in resveratrol. This compound has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, thereby improving the absorption and utilization of glucose by body tissues, and maintaining stable blood glucose levels. Moreover, as an antioxidant, resveratrol slows lipid peroxidation, enhances the condition of blood vessel walls, and reduces levels of LDL cholesterol. It also exhibits cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects. The cardioprotective properties of resveratrol are attributed to its ability to inhibit platelet aggregation, stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthetase activity, and prevent plaque formation on blood vessel walls.

The neuroprotective effect is linked to the enhancement of cerebral blood circulation and the increased resistance of nerve cells to hypoxia and harmful radicals. Based on these effects, it can be inferred that resveratrol may play a role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, angiopathy, dyslipidemia, and neuropathy—conditions frequently associated with or complicating diabetes mellitus.

Furthermore, the researchers considered the changes in the glycemic index during the study. Grapes possess a moderate glycemic index, indicating that they cause a gradual increase in blood glucose levels following consumption. Therefore, if grapes are consumed in moderation, with a daily intake of no more than 10-15 grams of glucose, it is possible to regulate glycemia. This approach allows for the inclusion of grapes in the diet without adversely affecting the progression of diabetes mellitus, while also contributing to the prevention of related complications.

Rasulova F.O., Assistant professor at the department of pharmacology