Effect of a diet containing powdered Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) seed on glucose levels and pancreatic tissue in rats with alloxan-induced diabetogenic symptoms

Paucar Diaz L.A.; Huaman Gutierrez O.G.; Herrera Rosalino A. · Nutricion Clinica y Dietetica Hospitalaria (2025) · DOI: 10.12873/453paucar

Resumen

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease of high prevalence, characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and alterations in insulin secretion or action. In response to this issue, the study of medicinal plants with hypoglycemic potential represents an emerging therapeutic alternative. In this context, the seed of Citrullus lanatus (watermelon) has been proposed as a coadjuvant in glycemic control. Objective: To evaluate the effect of a diet supplemented with powdered watermelon seed on glucose levels and pancreatic tissue in rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Methods: Thirty male Holtzman albino rats were randomly distributed into five groups: negative control (water), metformin (200 mg/kg), and three experimental groups receiving diets supplemented with 1%, 3%, and 9% watermelon seed. The treatment lasted 9 days. Glycemia was measured on days 1, 5, and 9, and pancreatic histology was assessed at the end of the study. Results: The group supplemented with 3% seed showed a significant reduction in glycemia (469 ± 107 mg/dL on day 1 to 232 ± 48 mg/dL on day 9; p<0.05), along with better preservation of pancreatic tissue. The metformin group also showed significant glycemic reduction (p<0.05). The 1% group had a non-significant decrease, while the 9% group showed no improvements. Histological analysis revealed well-preserved Langerhans islets and reduced vacuolization in the 3% and metformin groups. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with 3% Citrullus lanatus seed demonstrated a hypoglycemic effect and potential pancreatic protection in diabetic rats, suggesting its possible use as a nutritional adjunct in diabetes management. Further clinical studies are recommended to confirm these effects.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos