FAQ

  • How exactly does arabinose achieve its blood sugar control effect?

    The main points are as follows:
    1. Inhibiting α-glucosidase: Arabinose can inhibit the activity of α-glucosidase, a key enzyme that breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose in the small intestine. By inhibiting the activity of this enzyme, arabinose slows down the digestion rate of sucrose, thereby reducing the absorption of glucose. This mechanism of action is similar to that of some anti-hyperglycemic drugs such as acarbose. However, as a natural substance, arabinose has relatively fewer side effects. It does not easily cause gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms like acarbose does.
    2. Affecting liver sugar metabolism: Arabinose may also achieve its blood sugar control effect by affecting the sugar metabolism in the liver. In vivo experiments have shown that arabinose can inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis, that is, reduce the process of converting non-carbohydrate substances (such as amino acids and lactic acid) into glucose. It also promotes the utilization of glucose by liver cells and improves the symptoms of disordered sugar metabolism.
    3. Promoting intestinal health: Arabinose is a prebiotic that can promote the growth of beneficial intestinal flora and improve the intestinal microecological environment. This is not only beneficial to overall health, but may also indirectly affect glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity by improving the intestinal flora.
    4. Regulating the gastric emptying rate: Arabinose may also affect blood sugar levels by delaying the gastric emptying rate. A slower gastric emptying rate helps to delay the digestion and absorption process of food, avoiding a rapid rise in postprandial blood sugar.