Quantification of biguanide and related compounds (anti-diabetic) in vegetables and fruits

With the change in the lifestyle and diet patterns being observed globally, diabetes type II, is spreading at a fast rate. Although various pharmacological agents to treat diabetes are available, the incorporation of foods containing antidiabetic compounds to regular diet will be of great importance. The objective of this study was to quantify antidiabetic compounds, particularly, biguanide and related compounds (BRCs) in ten vegetables and four fruits. Results revealed the presence of one or more type of BRCs in tested samples. In the vegetables, BRCs ranged from 0.197 (turnip) to 3.28 mg/g FW (coriander). Amongst the fruits, BRCs were the maximum in banana (1.91 mg/g FW) and least in papaya (0.173 mg/g FW). Presence of BRCs in potato (0.564 mg/g FW) is of utmost importance due to its high per capita consumption compared to other tested vegetables and fruits. Per day consumption of potato (52.06 g) will be providing 29.36 mg of BRCs. Metformin, which is widely used for the treatment of diabetes (type II) was present in almost all the tested samples. The study revealed that the vegetables or fruits which we consume in our daily diet not only provide us nutrition but also provide an anti-diabetic effect on our body.