The effect of an oral ginger supplementation on NF-κB concentration in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and anthropomorphic data of patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Introduction The complications of diabetes are extensive which can be caused by excessive oxidative stress, inflammation and impaired insulin system. Plant-sourced bioactive compounds can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. The aim of present study was to determine the effect of ginger supplementation on diabetic complications. Methods The present study is a randomized double blind clinical trial which is conducted with 48 diabetic patients. The participants were randomly divided into two intervention and placebo groups which were received 2 g ginger powder and 2 g wheat flour respectively for 10 weeks. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) concentration and anthropometric measurements were evaluated at the baseline and at the end of study. Results The effect of ginger supplementation on hip circumference was marginal and there was no significant effect on BMI and waist circumference. Mean NF-κB p65 concentrations were reduced in ginger supplementation group, however, the amount was not statistically significant. Conclusion Ginger supplementation had significant effects on anthropometric evaluations. Ginger supplementation decreased mean NF-κB concentration in comparison with placebo, however the significance level was marginal. In order to achieve reliable information, more researches should be complemented with uptake of other diagnostic tools.