Scientists from Aberdeen University are hoping to find a way to prevent or postpone the onset of Type 2 Diabetes.
However, the innovative study will not be able to go ahead unless enough volunteers come forward to participate.
A team from the Rowett Institute will be examining whether food supplements containing bilberry and grape seed extract could lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels in people that may be at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
The researchers also want to record whether characteristics such as gender, age, body weight, genes and lifestyle factors play a part in how bodies respond to the supplements.
Dr Baukje de Roos is leading the study with Teresa Grohmann, and said: “We really hope to work with people who may be at risk to getting diabetes, and work to find a method of preventing it.
“We’re taking a personal approach, as previous studies have shown that people are affected in many different ways to dietary advice and studies.
“Type 2 diabetes is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, therefore preventing it at an early stage is important.”
Diabetes currently affects one in 25 people in Scotland, according to current statistics.
However, the figure could be as high as 250,000 as it is estimated that 20,000 people in Scotland remain undiagnosed.
As in many countries, type 2 diabetes is rapidly increasing in Scotland and accounts for about 87% of diabetes in Scotland.
Dr Roos added: “By improving glucose and lipid markers in the blood, we are hoping to postpone or prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes.
“In order to test our theory we really need help from members of the public, who might be willing to volunteer to take part in our research study.”
For the study, the Rowett Institute require volunteers who are 45 years or older with a BMI higher than 28. Participants should be either healthy or pre-diabetic.
For more information, contact Teresa Grohmann on 01224 438748.
