By printing and/or reading this article, you agree that you accept all terms and conditions of use, as specified online.
Aspirin Might Help Obese Avoid Diabetes
(May 4, 2008) - Many people, on the advice of their doctor, take an aspirin a day to help lower their risk of a heart attack. (Read about "Heart Attack") Aspirin-like compounds (salicylates) can claim another health benefit: increasing the amount of insulin produced by otherwise healthy obese people. (Read about "Obesity") Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, the first step toward type 2 diabetes. (Read about "Diabetes")
Aspirin and other salicylates are known to reduce blood glucose in diabetic patients. New research accepted for publication in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism reveals a similar beneficial effect among obese individuals by increasing the amount of insulin secreted into the bloodstream.
"The administration of a salicylate led to the lowering of serum glucose concentrations," said Jose-Manuel Fernandez-Real, lead author of the study. "These findings highlight the importance of further research on the possible therapeutic benefit of aspirin in the fight against type 2 diabetes."
For their study, Fernandez-Real and his colleagues evaluated the effects of triflusal (a derivative of salicylate) on 38 subjects (nine men and 29 women). The average age of the participants was 48 years old and their average Body Mass Index (BMI) was 33.9. A BMI of over 30 is considered obese. (Read about "BMI") During three, four-week treatment periods, the study participants received a 600 mg dose, a 900 mg dose, or a placebo once per day.
The researchers found that administration of triflusal led to decreased fasting serum glucose. Contrary to their expectations, insulin sensitivity did not significantly change during the trial. Insulin secretion, however, significantly increased in relation to the dose size.
Note: Statements and conclusions of study authors that are published here are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect this hospital's policy or position. This hospital makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability.
All Concept Communications material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.
© Concept Communications Media Group LLC
By printing and/or reading this article, you agree that you accept all terms and conditions of use, as specified online.
