Potato-Herb Synergies as Food Designs for Hyperglycemia and Hypertension Management

Abstract

The incidence of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases is increasing at a rapid rate globally. Adult on-set type II diabetes, which is closely associated with obesity, is reported to be 90-95% of all diabetic cases and linked to diet and lifestyle factors. Management of hyperglycemia using plant based foods with innate alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors has become increasingly important. Some varieties contain high levels of phenolics that can provide inhibition of carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes, thus preventing a rapid increase in post-prandial sugar levels. Several members of the family Lamiaceae and Apiaceae have been used traditionally as herbs and spices. Thus, combined intake of elite potatoes and herbs/spices can provide better protection from rapid increase in sugar levels in type II diabetes patients. In addition, the ability of phenolics to inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme activity can help reduce blood pressure, which is another complication associated with obesity and type II diabetes.