Melatonin and Vitamin E May Help Those with Diabetes

06/09/06

In May we reported on a study that showed that melatonin was as effective as prescription sleep medicine when used properly. This month we came across more good news about melatonin. The European Journal of Pharmacology recently published a study by Turkish researchers at Firat University that found the antioxidant effects of melatonin and vitamin E significantly reduce the cognitive decline caused by diabetes. The researchers induced diabetes in albino rats and then used water-maze tests to judge the animals' learning and memory abilities. The diabetic rats showed significant declines in their cognitive abilities, while the control rats did not. The diabetic rats also had increased lipid peroxidation levels and decreased glutathione concentration in the hippocampus and the frontal cortex, the areas of the brain primarily responsible for memory and spacial navigation. The administration of melatonin and vitamin E "significantly ameliorated learning and memory performance." As well, "both antioxidants reversed lipid peroxidation and glutathione levels toward their control values." This suggests that the cognitive decline associated with diabetes may be due to oxidative stress and that melatonin and vitamin E can improve the related cognitive impairment.¹

1. Tuzcu, M. and G. Baydas (2006). "Effect of melatonin and vitamin E on diabetes-induced learning and memory impairment in rats." Eur J Pharmacol 537(1-3): 106-10.

If you would like to receive articles like this by email, please join our monthly health newsletter!


top \| previous page	print this page

Affiliate Program

Wholesale Inquiries

Convenience Plan

Site Map

Privacy Policy

1-866-381-7693

www.WholeHealth.com

This website and these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult a properly trained medical practitioner for medical advice.