Effect of Citrus aurantiifolia (Key lime) Extract on Postprandial Glycaemic Response of Oral Glucose Solution in Healthy Individuals

Background: Type 2 diabetes is becoming highly prevalent worldwide, prompting researchers to explore new treatments with potential hypoglycemic effects. Citrus aurantiifolia is a commonly found fruit in Sri Lanka, which exhibits various pharmacological properties, including antidiabetic potential. Objective/s: This study aimed to evaluate the potency of Citrus aurantiifolia extract as a postprandial glycemic response-reducing agent in healthy individuals, exploring the potential benefit of key lime as a home remedy for type 2 diabetes. Methods: In a randomized clinical trial (KIU/ERC/23/190), 74 healthy male participants were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups and were administered 75g glucose in water, following an overnight fast of 8-10 hours. Subsequently, one group received Citrus aurantiifolia extract (Test group), while the other did not (Control group). Blood glucose levels were assessed in mmol/L at fasting, 30 minutes postprandially, and at regular intervals within one hour after ingestion of the glucose solution. Results: The results revealed a significant attenuation of postprandial glycemic levels in individuals administered with lime extract compared to the control group. The mean blood glucose of the test group and the control group at 30-minute intervals were recorded as 3.17 mmol/L and 6.09 mmol/L respectively. The extract exhibited a significant reduction of 47.9% in blood glucose levels in the test group compared to the control group after 30 minutes, p<0.05. Conclusion: Results suggest that Citrus aurantiifolia extract possesses potential antihyperglycemic properties. Integrating lime extract as a dietary supplement presents a cost-effective approach to home-based glycemic control and may be beneficial in management of type 2 diabetes.