Equity, diversity and inclusivity in nutrition research: Remediating metabolic health with Syzygium cumini (Linn) and its bioactive compounds

Equity, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) are critical in nutrition and health research, for scientificadvancements and general benefits. Syzygium cumini (Jamun) is a traditional medicinal plant withphytochemicals and bioactive compounds for managing metabolic challenges (diabetes-mellitus,cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, cancer, obesity, dyslipidaemia, inflammation and the likes).The efficacy of Jamun includes its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-sensitizing potentialsto remediate metabolic burden of general population especially those disadvantaged bysociodemographic factors. Most researches on Jamun concentrated on indigenous Asianpopulations while research on bioactive compounds often lacks representative participation andequal access by diverse ethnicity. Gaps in translating research findings to diverse populations,underscores inclusive methodologies to connect traditional medicine with modern science. It wasconcluded that employing EDI principles in nutraceutical management of metabolic disordersacross socio-demographic groups would enhance Jamun’s relevance and democratise its healthbenefits. This paper aligns with global promotion of EDI in health research while focusing theunderutilised potentials of Syzygium cumini in remediating metabolic challenges across variousdemographics. Focus on culturally relevant dietary interventions would promote equitable accessto functional indigenous recipes and commercial nutrition programmes with scientifically validatedinnovations in future studies. It was thus suggested that inclusive clinical trials on proposed researchsubjects should strategize to ensure that findings are relevant and beneficial to all communities. Itadvocated for funding and support to translate research on indigenous knowledge to benefitcommunities where underutilized resources originated as culturally tailored intervention.