The Effect of Salacca Zalacca Peel Extract, Moderate-Intensity Physical Activity, and Intermittent Fasting on Fasting Blood Glucose, Lipid Profile, and Malondialdehyde (MDA) in Type 2 Diabetic Rats: Case Study

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, persistent hyperglycemia, and increased oxidative stress, which together contribute to dyslipidemia and long-term complications. Natural bioactive compounds and lifestyle modifications are widely explored as complementary strategies for glycemic control. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Salacca zalacca (snake fruit) peel extract, moderate-intensity physical activity, and intermittent fasting on fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in rats with induced T2DM. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was used with 25 male Wistar rats randomly assigned to five groups: negative control, metformin-treated, Salacca zalacca peel extract, moderate-intensity swimming, and intermittent fasting. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin (STZ). Fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, and MDA levels were measured at predetermined intervals before and after the interventions. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. The results showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose in several groups, particularly those receiving swimming and intermittent fasting interventions (p ≤ 0.05). In contrast, no significant changes were observed in lipid profile parameters, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, and related fractions (p ≥ 0.05). However, MDA levels showed notable differences before and after the interventions, indicating a modulation of oxidative stress. In conclusion, moderate-intensity swimming and intermittent fasting effectively improved glycemic control and reduced lipid peroxidation in T2DM rats, whereas their effects on lipid profile were limited. These findings support lifestyle-based interventions, alongside natural products, as promising complementary approaches in T2DM management.