Berry wine could help diabetics

Scientists from the University of Illinois have found that the berry-based wines contain high levels of beneficial bioactive components that were almost as effective as the anti-diabetes drug Acarbose.

The researchers said that the carbohydrate-degrading enzymes, alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, were inhibited by a blueberry-blackberry wine blend.

The team also found high levels of antioxidants, polyphenols and anthocyanins in the wines, and are now hoping to create a dealcoholised fruit drink from the wine, which maintains the effectiveness of the beneficial components, and helps reduce blood sugar levels in diabetics.