Nutritional management of blood glucose levels

W. Russell, A. Baka, I. Björck, N. Delzenne, D. Gao, H. Griffiths, E. Hadjilucas, K. Juvonen, S. Lahtinen, M. Lansink, L. van Loon, H. Mykkänen, E. Östman, G. Riccardi, S. Vinoy, M. Weickert

Research output: Contribution to journalConference abstractpeer-review

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Nutritional management of blood glucose levels is a strategic target in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), applicable across the population. To implement a successful strategy it is essential to understand the impact of dietary modulation on the postprandial rise in blood glucose concentrations. Methods: Using the highest quality data, a systematic and comprehensive literature review was undertaken. Included in this review were the major macronutrients (carbohydrate, pro-tein, fat), micronutrient vitamins and minerals, non-nutrient phytochemicals and additional foods such as low-calorie sweeteners, vinegar and alcohol. Results: The strongest corroboration of efficacy for improving glucose homeostasis was for insoluble and moderately fermentable cereal-based fiber and mono-unsaturated fatty acids as replacement of saturated fat. Postprandial glycaemia was decreased by intake of viscous soluble fiber and the predominant mechanism of action was considered to be by delaying absorption of co-ingested carbohydrates. There was weaker but substantial evidence that certain phytochemical-rich foods were likely to be effective. This may be associated with the su-ggestion that the gut microbiota plays an important role in me-tabolic regulation, which includes provision of phytochemical and other metabolites. Conclusions: Based on the evidence, it is clear that dietary components have significant and clinically relevant effects on blood glucose modulation. This suggests that employing a dietary regimen to attenuate the postprandial rise in blood glucose levels along with previously identified targets (reducing excess body weight and an increase in physical activity) will benefit the health of the population and limit the increasing worldwide incidence of T2D.
Original languageEnglish
Article numberPO2241
Pages (from-to)1339-1340
Number of pages2
JournalAnnals of Nutrition and Metabolism
Volume63
Issue numberS1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2013
Event20th international congress of nutrition - Granada, Spain
Duration: 15 Sept 201320 Sept 2013

Bibliographical note

20th International Congress of Nutrition: Granada, Spain, 15–20 September 2013

Keywords

  • diabetes
  • postprandial glycaemia
  • blood glucose

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Nutritional management of blood glucose levels'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this