ABSTRACT
Flavonoids are a group of plant-based chemicals that shield us from several health problems. One of the emerging health problems is diabetes, which affects more than 422 million people worldwide and contributes to 1.5 million mortalities. The covert role of flavonoids was not acknowledged in clinical practice, but in recent years, the beneficial effects and possible mechanisms have been researched and appreciated. An attempt has been made in this regard to identify the potential flavonoids present in plants and to highlight their pathophysiological role in managing diabetes. A literature review was undertaken, and six flavonoid classes were identified, including flavones, flavonols, flavanones, isoflavo-noids, anthocyanins, and chalcones. Among these classes, a number of flavonoids have beneficial roles in managing hyperglycemia, promoting insulin secretion and proliferation of β-cells, reducing insulin resistance, managing carbohydrate metabolism and gluconeogenesis, and increasing the transportation of glucose into the cells. Some flavonoids may imitate the role of oral hyperglycemic drugs and help in carbohydrate metabolism. In addition to this, it was found that it may reduce the risk of long-term diabetic complications and delay the progression of associated diseases. It had a significant role in managing oxidative stress and inflammation. Flavonoids also possess anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties that may enhance the immune system that is compromised in diabetic patients with persistent hyperglycemia. Hence, it may be inferred that flavonoids have a scope of its use as an adjunct medicine for diabetic patients in the future.
