Fortified Food With <i>Withania Somnifera</i> Modulates Glucose Metabolism in STZ‐Induced Hyperglycemia in Rats

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by increased oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and associated implications that require suitable therapy approaches. One of the most effective approaches is to add fortified foods with multifunctional properties. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) root powder can help diabetics maintain stable blood glucose levels and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. This study investigated the effects of fortified meal supplementation on STZ-induced diabetic rats. 2-month-old male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups as follows: Group 1 (Controls), Group II (Diabetic), Group III (Fortified Food), and Group IV (Diabetic + FF). Diabetes was induced by IP injection of Streptozotocin (STZ) at 50 mg/kg b.wt. The study found that supplying STZ-induced diabetics with fortified foods significantly improved fasting glucose, body weight, C-peptide levels, HbA1c, and insulin levels, as well as altered lipid profiles. Furthermore, diabetic rats fed with a fortified diet exhibited significant improvement in urea, uric acid, and creatinine levels. In addition, diabetic rats had aberrant plasma sodium, potassium, and calcium levels. Furthermore, liver function tests revealed elevated levels of AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH enzymes; however, diabetic rats fed with a supplemented diet had these enzyme levels reduced to normal. Moreover, we observed increased lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide levels with altered antioxidant status (reduced glutathione, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione S-transferase) in diabetic rats. Supplementation with fortified food decreased oxidative stress. Furthermore, fortified food supplementation to diabetic rats normalized the mRNA expression of PEPCK, G6Pase, IGFBP, GLUT-2, SREBP1c, ABCA1, ABCG1, and fatty acid synthase compared to diabetic rats. Our histopathology examinations confirmed these findings. Our findings revealed that fortified foods can be beneficial in diabetes management, reducing complications and increasing overall health outcomes. Fortified food, which is high in protein, minerals, and phytochemicals, provides an effective way to manage diabetes and promote overall health.