Effects of moderate-intensity exercise with Momordica charantia L. consumption on serum reverse cholesterol transport elements and lipid profile in men with type 2 diabetes

Epidemiological data indicate that defects of the reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) causes cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to examine the effects of moderate-intensity exercise with Momordica charantia L. consumption on serum reverse cholesterol transport elements and lipid profile in men with Type 2 diabetes.

In this clinical trial study, 36 men with type 2 diabetes were selected from Lolagar hospital, Tehran and were randomly divided into four groups (Control, Momordica charantia, Training and Momordica charantia+Training). The training groups participated in a progressive aerobic training for eight weeks, three sessions a week (40% to 70% of the reserved heart rate and for 15 to 45 min). The groups of Control-Momordica charantia and Momordica charantia+Training were provided 2000 mg of Momordica charantia for eight weeks (Twice a day before breakfast and dinner).

The results showed that the Apo-A1, Apo-E, pon-1 and HDL-c in experimental groups had a significant increase compared to the control group (Respectively P=0.000, P=0.001, P=0.000 and P=0.000). Also, LDL-c, TG and TC decrease significantly in the experimental group compared to the control group. (Respectively P=0.001, P=0.001 and P=0.000). Apo-A1, Apo-E and PON-1 levels were significantly increased in Momordica charantia+Training group compared to Training and Momordica charantia groups (P≤0.05).

Aerobic training and Momordica charantia consumption can reduce cardiovascular disease in T2DM patients by affecting RCT factors. Therefore, it is recommended to use a combination of training and Momordica charantia consumption to prevent and treat T2DM.