Mulberry Leaf in the Diet

Mulberry and mulberry leaf extract are natural medicines used for hundreds of years in traditional medical practices. The ancient Chinese Materia Medica claims that mulberry has a heathful effects on the liver, and new studies reveal that regular use of mulberry leaf may help prevent or control Type 2 diabetes by suppressing insulin absorption. Although there are some claims that a mulberry leaf diet leads to weight loss, there is no scientific evidence to support this.

Effects of Mulberry Leaf

In clinical trials at the University of Minnesota, mulberry leaf extract has been shown to reduce the absorption of sugars and complex carbohydrates in humans, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, a necessary aspect of managing Type 2 diabetes in otherwise healthy adults. The best effects have been noted when it is taken prior to large meals, which can cause greater fluctuations in glucose levels. The active ingredient in mulberry leaf extract that affects glucose levels is the chemical 1-deoxynojirimycin.

Considerations

The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry published findings that mulberry leaf extract may help prevent some forms of diabetes by suppressing insulin production when taken regularly and in conjunction with other healthful practices. Integrative medical practitioner Dr. Andrew Weil suggests taking a dosage of 1 gram before a meal, as well as eating magnesium-rich foods like leafy green vegetables and sunflower seeds, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish and fish oil and also available as a supplement. These recommendations have not been evaluated by the FDA.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in the United States. It is sometimes called late-onset or adult-onset diabetes, as it is more common in adulthood. However, children may also be affected by this disease. Patients with Type 2 diabetes produce insulin, but their bodies are unable to use it or are resistant to it. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled (or prevented) with a healthy diet, exercise, and--in some cases--oral medication. Adding mulberry leaf to your diet may help the body process insulin, but there is no evidence that it affects sugar cravings or aids in weight loss.

History of the Mulberry in Medicine

Mulberry is a tree native to Asia and North America. White mulberry leaves have been used for hundreds of years in Chinese medicine as a blood tonic, and the plant has also been a primary food source for silkworms. The more common form of mulberry bears a purple fruit, which is sweet but bland. Mulberry fruit is considered in Galenic theory and Ayurvedic practice to have cold and moist properties; therefore, it is used to counteract hot and dry symptoms, like fevers and coughs.

No Known Side Effects

Mulberry fruit and mulberry leaf are not known to have side effects, though conclusive testing has not been done. Mulberry leaf should be considered a preventative or integrative medicine, and you should always consult a doctor before beginning a course of any medicine. Mulberry leaf has not been proven to promote weight loss or suppress sugar cravings, but it has been shown to effectively control insulin absorption, thus contributing to control of Type 2 diabetes, in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.

Mulberry Zuccarin

New Nordic laboratories in Sweden is marketing a natural health product, Mulberry Zuccarin, to be available for sale in the United State in mid- or late-2010. New Nordic claims this product reduces sugar cravings and promotes weight loss by reducing the breakdown of sugars and lowering blood sugar. New Nordic promotes a regimen of one tablet as part of a daily diet. While clinical trials support the claim that mulberry leaf blocks carbohydrate absorption into the blood, there are no current trials that support the claim that a mulberry leaf diet or Mulberry Zuccarin supplements promote weight loss.