New hope for diabetic kidney disease: the power of vegetables

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About a quarter of individuals with diabetes may develop diabetic nephropathy over time, a progressive kidney disease that could eventually necessitate dialysis.

As a leading cause of chronic kidney disease in the U.S., and being associated with a high risk of heart disease, this condition remains a significant health concern.

While there is currently no cure, a recent study offers a glimmer of hope in vegetable compounds.

Study on Vegetable Compounds

Researchers from AlMaarefa University have found that a compound responsible for the pungent taste in some vegetables might aid in reversing kidney damage associated with diabetes.

They focused on the effects of phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), a compound found in several types of vegetables, with the highest concentration in watercress.

Encouraging Results

The researchers found indications that PEITC could effectively reverse severe kidney damage in diabetic individuals. Being a naturally occurring compound, it offers a promising avenue for treatment.

Earlier studies have suggested that sulforaphane, a compound related to PEITC and found in cruciferous vegetables, also assists in reducing kidney damage linked to diabetes.

This new study bolsters the evidence that an increased intake of vegetables containing these compounds could help diabetic patients avoid kidney complications.

Vegetables High in PEITC

PEITC could provide a way to manage one of the most debilitating complications of diabetes, and it is readily available in many foods. These include watercress, broccoli, turnips, and radishes.

Further Research Required

More studies are needed to verify these findings and ascertain how they could inform new treatments or dietary advice for individuals with diabetes.

Other Useful Resources

If diabetes is a topic of interest, other relevant studies are worth exploring.

Some investigate the types of bread that diabetic patients can consume without a spike in their blood sugar levels, while another study delves into the most suitable fruits for people with diabetes.

The research was presented at the American Association for Anatomy’s annual meeting and was conducted by Mohamed El-Sherbiny and his team.

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If you care about kidney health, please read studies about pesticide linked to chronic kidney disease, and this drug may prevent kidney failure in people with diabetes.

For more information about kidney health, please see recent studies about drug duo that may treat kidney failure, and results showing these vegetables may protect against kidney damage.

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