Pistachios Improves Glycemic Control in Prediabetics: Study
Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as type 2 diabetes. It is a growing concern worldwide, with millions of people affected. While lifestyle changes and medication are commonly recommended to manage prediabetes, a recent study suggests that a handful of nuts a day may also help improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, was led by Dr. V. Mohan, a renowned Indian endocrinologist and epidemiologist. The research focused on the effects of pistachios on prediabetic Indian adults and found that eating 30g of pistachios before meals improved glycemic control and reduced triglycerides (a type of fat found in the blood).
The study involved 64 prediabetic adults, aged 40-70 years, who were randomly assigned to either a control group or a treatment group. The treatment group was asked to consume 30g of pistachios 30 minutes before each meal for three months, while the control group did not receive any pistachios. The researchers measured the participants’ glycemic control, triglycerides, and other biomarkers at the beginning and end of the study.
The results showed that the treatment group had significant improvements in glycemic control, with a reduction in the area under the curve (AUC) for glucose by 12.5%. This suggests that pistachios can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Additionally, the treatment group had a significant reduction in triglycerides by 15.6%, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The researchers also found that the pistachio group had a significant increase in protein and healthy fats, which may contribute to the observed improvements in glycemic control and triglycerides. Furthermore, the study found that the pistachio group had a significant reduction in carbohydrate intake, which is a common recommendation for people with prediabetes.
The study’s lead author, Dr. V. Mohan, explained that the findings suggest that pistachios can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet for prediabetic individuals. “Pistachios are a nutrient-dense food that can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by reducing carbohydrate intake while boosting protein and healthy fats,” he said.
The study’s results are significant because they suggest that a simple dietary change, such as eating a handful of nuts a day, can have a positive impact on glycemic control and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This is particularly important in India, where prediabetes is a growing concern and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes is high.
In conclusion, the study provides evidence that pistachios can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet for prediabetic individuals. The findings suggest that eating 30g of pistachios before meals can improve glycemic control and reduce triglycerides, making it a potential tool for reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
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