Treating Hyperinsulinemia with Momordica charantia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of a novel nutraceutical mainly containing the extract of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia) and α-lipoic acid for the treatment of patients with hyperinsulinemia. Methods: Pilot prospective open-label cohort trial including 11 patients with hyperinsulinemia due to insulin resistance. The concentrations of insulin, C-peptide, glucose, haemoglobin A1c, total cholesterol, triglycerids, gamma- glutamyltransferase, and C-reactive protein were measured in blood take between 3 and 4 hours after dinner. Results: One and 4 months after initiation of treatment there was a significant decrease of the concentrations of Insulin (to average 25% of initial value), C-peptide (to average 44% of initial value), glucose, hemoglobin A1c and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase. Clinical significance: Treatment of patients with hyperinsulinemia, with or without diabetes or metabolic syndrome, using a novel nutraceutical containing Momordica charantia and α-lipoic acid dramatically reduced insulin resistance and may have improved non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.