Background: Prebiotics are polysaccharides proved to be beneficiary for human’s health. Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus Moench.) infusion water/OIW is considered having prebiotic properties, since Okra contain a considerable amount of polysaccharides. Administration of polysaccharide is able to control glucose level in diabetic rats. Aim: to determine the okra’s ability in enhancing glucose and HbA1C level in diabetic induced rats.

Methods: Posttest only control group design was used in this experimental study. Eighteen wistar rats aged 2 months, weigh 250 grams, randomly divided into 3 groups: Control, diabetic rats (DM), and Okra (OK). Control received only standard diet. Two other groups were induced with streptozotocin 65 mg/kg BW and nicotinamide 110 mg/kg BW for 4 days. After the desirable glucose level was achieved, OK group received 3.6 ml OIW for 28 days, while the DM groups received standard diet. OIW was made from three fresh pods of okra infused in 200 ml potable water, given only 3.6 ml using gauge. Blood specimen was obtained from ophthalmic vein at day 40. Data was analyzed using ANOVA, considered significance only if p<0.05. This research was conducted after has been approved by Ethic Commission of Medicine Faculty of UNISSULA.

Results: Fasting and postprandial glucose level of OK group (137.40 & 154.58 mg/dL) were lower than DM group (251.77 & 270.18 mg/dL), p<0.05. HbA1C level of OK group (7.93%) was lower than DM group (21.29%), p<0.05.

Conclusion: Prebiotic properties of Okra infused water has ability to enhance glucose and HbA1C level in diabetic induced rats.

Keywords: prebiotic, okra infused water, hyperglycaemic level