A Comparison of the Effects of Khat Chewing on Certain Biochemical and Physiological Variables in Males and Females with Type 2 Diabetes in Sana'a City, Yemen

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a health condition characterized by high blood glucose levels. Khat (Catha Edulis) is a plant commonly cultivated in Yemen and certain East African countries. This study examined the effects of Khat on blood glucose levels and select body parameters in individuals with Type II DM, comparing males and females. The study included 104 individuals, including healthy and diabetic participants, an equal number of males and females. Participants were categorized within each sex as follows: non-diabetic and non-Khat chewers, non-diabetic and Khat chewers, diabetic and non-Khat chewers, and diabetic and Khat chewers. Measurements included fasting blood sugar (FBS), blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI). Blood samples were taken for a complete blood count. BMI results indicated an overweight status among Khat chewers, especially diabetic females (64.28%). FBS was non-significantly decreased in diabetic Khat-chewing males but significantly increased in diabetic-chewing females (p < 0.01) compared to non-chewers. Systolic blood pressure was higher across all diabetic groups. In males, Khat caused significant changes (p < 0.05) in hemoglobin concentration, total white blood cell count, and monocyte count in diabetic males compared to healthy individuals. Females showed no significant differences in blood parameters across groups, except for a decrease in MCHC among Khat chewers. Khat had no significant impact on lowering blood sugar or blood pressure in diabetic patients of either sex. On the contrary, Khat may aggravate these conditions. Its influence on blood parameters was limited and observed only in males.