Impact of Poplar Propolis on Metabolic Disturbances of Insulin Resistance

Impact of Poplar Propolis on Insulin Homeostasis and Pancreatic Cell Function in Insulin Resistant Subjects

Propolis, a natural resinous mixture rich in polyphenols, produced by bees from a variety of plant sources, has shown significant therapeutic effects and may prevent the development of certain chronic diseases. Current evidence supports the beneficial effect of these bioactive phytochemicals on the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other chronic diseases. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of poplar propolis extract powder (PPEP) on glucose homeostasis and other clinical parameters in insulin-resistant patients (diagnosed by HOMA-IR index > 1.85 for men and > 2.07 for women).

Backgroud: Propolis, a natural resinous mixture rich in polyphenols, produced by bees from a variety of plant sources, has shown significant therapeutic effects and may prevent the development of certain chronic diseases. Current evidence supports the beneficial effect of these bioactive phytochemicals on the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and other chronic diseases. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of poplar propolis extract powder (PPEP) on glucose homeostasis and other clinical parameters in insulin-resistant patients (diagnosed by HOMA-IR index > 1.85 for men and > 2.07 for women).

Methods: The trial was a randomized, controlled, crossover, intervention study. Insulin-resistant patients (n=9) (8 women, 1 man), with a mean ± SD age 49 ± 7, were subjected to two periods of supplementation (propolis and placebo) for 3-months, separated by a 2-week washout period. The quantity of propolis administered was determined individually to reach 6 mg of polyphenols/kg. Fasting blood test and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) were performed before and after each treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2
• Insulin resistance defined as a HOMA-IR index > 1.85 for men and > 2.07 for women

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of diabetes
• Recent weight change (≥ 5% in the last 3 months)
• Documented allergy to bee products and/or fish products
• Positive serology for human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis
• High blood pressure
• Elevated transaminases (AST > 40 IU/L ; ALT > 45 IU/L)
• Low creatine clearance (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 90 ml/min)
• Interfering treatment (cholesterol-lowering treatment, intestinal absorption modulating treatment, absorption modulating treatment and/or insulin sensitivity)
• Gastrointestinal tract surgery
• Pregnancy and / or lactation.