Combination Effect of Bitter Melon (Momordica Charantia L.) Extract With Snakehead Fish (Channa Striata) Powder to Reduce the Glycaemia Increase in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic condition marked by persistent hyperglycemia and associated inflammation, which contribute to the development of vascular and metabolic complications. Chronic hyperglycemia accelerates the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which may impair tissue structure and function through oxidative stress and protein cross-linking mechanisms. Dietary phytochemicals and bioactive compounds have been increasingly studied as supportive strategies for glycemic regulation.

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) has been traditionally used in various cultures as a natural remedy for diabetes. It contains several bioactive molecules, including alkaloids, flavonoids, catechins, saponins, charantins, and polypeptide-p, which are believed to contribute to glycemic regulation through mechanisms such as insulin secretagogue effects, enhancement of glucose utilization, modulation of glucose transporters, and inhibition of α-glucosidase activity. Despite its widespread traditional use, clinical findings have been variable due to differences in formulations, study durations, and methodological designs.

Snakehead fish (Channa striata) contains essential amino acids, fatty acids, and antioxidant components that may support metabolic processes and physiological recovery. While research has explored its nutritional and antioxidant potential, its combined use with bitter melon in T2DM has not been previously studied.

This study adopts a quasi-experimental design with a control group to assess the effect of a combined herbal supplement consisting of bitter melon extract and snakehead fish powder in individuals with T2DM. A total of 80 participants aged 25-65 years are recruited from four community health centers in Surakarta, Indonesia. Eligible participants have been clinically diagnosed with T2DM, are receiving metformin therapy, and meet specified biochemical inclusion criteria. Individuals with impaired renal or hepatic function, pregnancy, lactation, or known allergies to the study materials are excluded.

Participants provide informed consent and undergo initial screening before being allocated to either the treatment group or the placebo group. The intervention is administered for a period of four weeks. Outcome assessments include fasting plasma glucose, glycated albumin, insulin, and AGEs, measured at baseline and at the end of week four. Laboratory analyses utilize enzymatic methods and ELISA techniques. Medication adherence is monitored through pill counts and structured interviews during follow-up visits.