Anthocyanins: Potent natural warriors in the battle against diabetes

Background: Over half of the world’s population suffers from diabetes mellitus (DM), which affects insulin function. In 2021, Indonesia had 19.5 million DM patients, ranking fifth globally. There are two types: type 1 (DMT1) and type 2 (DMT2). Anthocyanins, flavonoid metabolites responsible for purple, blue, and red colours, are found in various Indonesian fruits, flowers, and plants, offering a natural source of these compounds. Objective: This review is to determine the potential of anthocyanins in treating DMT2 and identify plants rich in anthocyanins. Method: This study was conducted through an in-depth literature review of sources from PubMed, Google Scholar, the Ministry of Health, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and the World Health Organisation (WHO), focusing on anthocyanins and diabetes. The use of natural ingredients represents a promising therapeutic option for treating DMT2. Results: In-vivo research shows that anthocyanins in dark-coloured fruits and vegetables can increase insulin sensitivity, regulate carbohydrate metabolism, and reduce oxidative stress. Anthocyanins from extracts of Rosella flowers, red spinach, and purple sweet potatoes can reduce blood glucose levels and improve the function of pancreatic beta cells, making them a promising additional therapeutic alternative. While the findings are promising, further research is essential to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of anthocyanins in diabetes therapy.