Effect of Pumpkin Seed Capsule Supplementation (Cucurbita moschata) and a Spiritual-Based Intervention (Tahajjud Prayer) on Fasting Blood Glucose and Cortisol Levels in Prediabetic Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of pumpkin seed (Cucurbita moschata) capsule supplementation combined with a spiritual-based stress reduction intervention on fasting blood glucose (FBG) and cortisol levels among prediabetic patients. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a nonrandomized pretest-posttest control group design was conducted among 37 prediabetic participants in a primary healthcare setting. The intervention group (n=18) received pumpkin seed capsules (Cucurbita moschata) (700 mg, twice daily) and participated in a structured spiritual-based night-time practice (Tahajjud prayer) at least three times per week for 30 days. The control group (n=19) received placebo capsules and health education. FBG was measured using a glucometer, and salivary cortisol levels were assessed using immunoassay. Statistical analyses included Wilcoxon signed-rank and Mann–Whitney tests. Results: The intervention group showed a significant reduction in FBG (from 120.06±7.94 mg/dL to 87.72±6.76 mg/ dL; p<0.001), compared to the control group (p<0.001), with a significantly greater reduction between groups (p<0.001). Cortisol levels significantly decreased within both groups; however, the betweengroup difference was not statistically significant (p=0.229). Conclusions: The combination of pumpkin seed supplementation (Cucurbita moschata) and a spiritual-based intervention significantly improved fasting blood glucose levels in prediabetic patients. Although cortisol levels decreased, the reduction was not significantly different compared to the control group. Due to the simultaneous administration of both interventions, the independent effect of each component cannot be determined. This combined intervention may serve as a complementary strategy for prediabetes management.