Scientists set out to investigate what effect, if any, propolis capsules had on blood sugar control and insulin resistance in rats with Type II diabetes.
They used what is called the ‘euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp experiment’ to measure the effects of propolis (this is considered the gold standard for this type of experiment and is considered very reliable). In this procedure, insulin is infused into the blood at a constant rate which results in a drop in blood sugar. To maintain blood sugar at a constant level, sugar is then infused into the blood. The amount of sugar infused to maintain homeostasis is indicative of insulin sensitivity.
Upon performing this, the scientists found that giving the propolis capsules to the animals balanced their blood sugar in a very significant way. It also improved a key measure of insulin sensitivity called the Insulin Act Index.
They went on to conclude that encapsulated propolis can in fact control blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity. Continue reading Blood sugar control and insulin resistance
