Naslov (eng)

Nutrition and traditional use of forest fruit trees as integral parts of diabetes treatment in the Pirot District (Serbia)

Autor

Marković, Stefan Lj.
Uzunović, Slavoljub
Pančić, Anđela S.
Marković, Marija S.
Papović, Olivera
Stankov Jovanović, Vesna P.

Publisher

Opis (eng)

Abstract: The paper explores the role of nutrition in the treatment of diabetes. The approach to nutrition as part of therapy requires careful analysis of scientific knowledge, taking into account the complexity of the disease and individual variations among patients. People with diabetes should be aware of the importance of a balanced and varied diet. The diet should be adapted to individual needs, considering factors such as age, gender, level of physical activity, and general health. Efforts should also be directed toward educating patients about the importance of proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and glycemic control. The role of nutrition in diabetes treatment is reflected in the following: 1. Balanced macronutrient intake, with an emphasis on complex carbohydrates, fiber, and low glycemic index foods, helps regulate blood sugar; 2. Proper nutrition reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and other diabetes-related complications; 3. It is especially important in type 2 diabetes, where weight loss can significantly improve insulin sensitivity; 4. Nutrients like magnesium, chromium, vitamin D, and antioxidants play role in improving insulin function. In regions like the Pirot District in Serbia, traditional knowledge about forest fruit trees contributes to local diets and may support diabetes management through natural, nutrient-rich options. This ethnobotanical study focuses on the traditional use of seven commonly foraged wild fruit trees: cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.), small-flowered black hawthorn (Crataegus pentagyna Waldst. & Kit. ex Willd.), black mulberry (Morus nigra L.), blackthorn (Prunus spinosa L.), almond-leaved pear (Pyrus amygdaliformis Vill.), European wild pear (Pyrus pyraster (L.) Burgsd.), and cowberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) - in the Pirot District. Fieldwork was conducted through a survey to document local knowledge. Among 67 respondents who mentioned diabetes control and treatment, 12 referred to thet use of forest fruit trees: two reports on the use of cornelian cherry fruits in the form of decoction; one report on the use of small-flowered black hawthorn fruits in the form of decoction; one report on the use of black mulberry leaves in the form of infusion; two reports on the use of blackthorn fruits in the form of decoction; three reports on the use of almond-leaved pear in the form of decoction (one referring to fruit and two to bark); two reports on the use of European wild pear fruits in the form of decoction; and one report on the use of fresh cowberry fruits. Nutrition is very important in diabetes management. The traditional use of forest fruit trees from the Pirot District not only supports metabolic health, prevention, and control of diabetes but also preserves the cultural and ecological heritage of the region.

Jezik

engleski

srpski

Datum

2025

Licenca

Ovo delo je licencirano pod uslovima licence
Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 - Creative Commons Autorstvo 4.0 International License.

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode

Predmet

Keywords: nutrition, diabetes, prevention, regular physical activity, forest fruit trees, Pirot District

Deo kolekcije (1)

o:1347

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