Abstract

The antioxidant activities of blends of selected fruit extracts used in diabetic management was investigated. Hot water extracts of unripe pawpaw fruit, guava leaf and grape fruit were formulated into drinks. Two samples (F1 and F2) were produced, with roselle calyx serving as a carrier in sample F2. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined using standard procedures. The scavenging effects on hydroxyl, nitric oxide,  superoxide radicals, and DPPH as well as protection against reactive oxygen species : induced lipid damage in hepatic tissues were evaluated. The drinks exhibited high antioxidant activities both in-vitro and ex vivo, as indicated by their ability to scavenge DPPH, hydroxyl radicals and nitric oxides, high reducing power, and protection against biological macromolecular oxidative damage. This suggests that the drinks could be protective against diabetic-induced complications. The presence of phenolic compounds may be responsible for these effective antioxidant properties.