Activation of Type 2 Taste Receptors by Polyphenols ‌May Help Reduce Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

A recent study has found that activation of the type 2 taste receptor‌ (T2R) in the gastrointestinal tract by polyphenols induces the secretion of hormones that help lower ​the risk of⁢ developing type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Polyphenols are natural​ compounds⁤ that occur ⁢in⁣ plant foods such ⁣as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. There are over 8,000 types of polyphenols, all of which have antioxidant properties‌ that protect body ⁢cells from aging and external damage.

Polyphenols are generally bitter and ​interact with T2R, a bitter taste ⁢receptor. T2R is distributed not only in the tongue but also ​in ⁣various organs‍ of the body, and is widely expressed in the ‍digestive tract, where it is ⁣involved ‍in the secretion of incretin, a digestive ‌hormone, and appetite suppression.

The research team focused on the relationship between the ⁤bitter taste of polyphenols, glucose tolerance, and⁢ the risk of developing type 2⁤ diabetes. They found that when T2R in the gastrointestinal tract is activated by⁢ polyphenol, it induces the secretion ⁤of GLP-1 and cholecystokinin (CCK), hormones involved in appetite and blood sugar control.

Both CCK and GLP-1 are hormones that help reduce ‍appetite and regulate blood sugar, and gastrointestinal hormones secreted by polyphenols may help reduce an individual’s risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The research‌ team argued that new ways to control blood sugar ⁢and appetite must be found, as current⁣ medications prescribed for type 2 diabetes often cause side effects and ⁢there⁢ are no widely available preventive medications.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, ⁣commonly⁤ prescribed to treat type ‌2 diabetes and obesity, are absorbed and act on GLP-1 receptors​ in target organs, ⁤but may inadvertently​ cause adverse effects on the gastrointestinal tract and blood sugar.

Polyphenols, which show similar effects to drugs but are safer than⁣ drugs, have the potential to replace existing GLP-1 targeting treatments.

Experts assessed that​ research is needed to determine how much polyphenol or polyphenol-containing food ⁢intake should be ‌made to make a significant difference in terms of diabetes and ‌weight management, and whether polyphenols can be ‍obtained in a concentrated form ⁤and made into supplements.

By incorporating polyphenol-rich foods into our​ diets, we may ‌be able to reduce our risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity, and improve our overall ‌health and well-being.