Acute Effects of Three Cooked Non-Cereal Starchy Foods on Postprandial Glycemic Responses and in Vitro Carbohydrate Digestion in Comparison with Whole Grains: A Randomized Trial

Savory Cracker Development for Blood Glucose Control and Management: Glycogen Storage Diseases

The blood glucose response of savory slow energy-release crackers (GLY-HYP) were evaluated in volunteers carrying glycogen storage diseases (GSDs), Types I (Ia) and IV. The crackers have been shown previously to provide a "flat" slow glucose response in healthy volunteers, for up to 4 h. On average for the mixed-sex volunteer group aged 53 to 70 for Type I, the blood glucose concentration increased from baseline to a maximum of 9.5 mmol/L at 60 min and remained above baseline for up to 210 min; overall, above 5 mmol/L for 4 h. In common with healthy individuals, a relatively flat blood glucose response was recorded. For Type IV, mixed-sex patients aged between 55 and 72, the blood glucose concentration reached maximum of 10.2 mmol/L at 45 min and then stayed above baseline for 150 min. Again, overall, above 5 mmol/L for 4 h. Altogether, these data indicate that these crackers would provide a valuable contribution to the nutritional needs of people of different age groups with GSDs (Clinical Registration Number: HRC10032021).

A Nutrigenetic Strategy for Reducing Blood Lipids and Low-Grade Inflammation in Adults with Obesity and Overweight

The pathogenesis of obesity and dyslipidemia involves genetic factors, such as polymorphisms related to lipid metabolism alterations predisposing their development. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nutrigenetic intervention on the blood lipid levels, body composition, and inflammation markers of adults with obesity and overweight. Eleven genetic variants associated with dyslipidemias in Mexicans were selected, and specific nutrigenetic recommendations for these polymorphisms were found. One hundred and one adults were recruited and assigned to follow either a standard or nutrigenetic diet for eight weeks. Anthropometric, biochemical, body composition, and inflammation markers were evaluated through standardized methods. Weighted genetic risk scores (wGRSs) were computed using the study polymorphisms. After intervention, both diets significantly decreased the anthropometric parameters and body composition (p < 0.05). Only the nutrigenetic diet group showed significant reductions in VLDL-c (p = 0.001), triglycerides (p = 0.002), TG:HDL (p = 0.002), IL-6 (p = 0.002), and TNF-α (p = 0.04). wGRSs had a high impact on the ΔTGs and ΔVLDL-c of both groups (standard diet: ΔTGs: Adj R2 = 0.69, p = 0.03; ΔVLDL-c: Adj R2 = 0.71, p = 0.02; nutrigenetic diet: ΔTGs: Adj R2 = 0.49, p = 0.03 and ΔVLDL-c: R2 = 0.29, p = 0.04). This nutrigenetic intervention improved lipid abnormalities in patients with excessive body weight. Hence, nutrigenetic strategies could be coadjuvant tools and enhance the standard dietary treatment for cardiometabolic diseases.

Molecular structure of lotus seed amylopectins and their beta-limit dextrins

Investigation on amylopectin molecular structure is gaining importance for understanding the properties of starch. Lotus seeds are a novel starch source with high apparent amylose content. Current understanding on the molecular structure of amylopectin in lotus seed starch is scarce. This study compared the molecular structure of a range of lotus seed amylopectins with those of maize and potato amylopectins. Internal structures of these amylopectins were compared via investigating the chain length distribution of their β-limit dextrins. The average lengths and molar compositions of unit chains in lotus seed amylopectins and their β-limit dextrins fell generally between those of maize and potato. The average chain lengths of lotus seed, maize, and potato amylopectins were 19.95 (on average), 19.11, and 21.19 glucosyl units, respectively. Lotus seed amylopectins had higher weight proportion of clustered unsubstituted chains (44.94 % on average) than those of potato (43.99 %) and maize amylopectins (42.95 %). Results of correlation analysis indicated that apparent amylose content of LS were related to structural characteristics of its amylopectin due to the presence of long external chains. The results of this study are of fundamental importance for the utilization of lotus seed starch as a novel starch source.

Postprandial glucose-lowering effects by sago (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) resistant starch in spontaneously type 2 diabetes, Goto-Kakizaki rat

Introduction: The beneficial effects of resistant starch (RS) consumption on health in terms of reducing postprandial hyperglycaemia are evident. However, the potential of local Sarawak sago RS in regulating glucose has not been extensively studied. Objectives: This study aims to identify glucose-lowering effects of Sarawak sago RS, namely native (RS2) and chemically modified (RS4). Methodology: An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed before and after 1 month treatment with sago RS2 and RS4 in spontaneously type 2 diabetes (T2D), Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat. The mechanisms involved were further explored by screening the in vitro inhibitory activities of α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-IV. Histopathology examination for pancreas, kidney and liver tissues was done in response to sago RS intake using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Results and discussion: The incremental area under the curve (iAUC) for blood glucose in RS-treated groups was decreased and significant in RS2-treated group (p < 0.05). Improved iAUC for insulin and higher glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) levels were observed in all RS-treated groups (p < 0.05). Both sago RS may have potential roles in regulating glucose via α- glucosidase and DPP-IV inhibitory activities by reducing intestinal glucose absorption. For histopathology, although insignificant, sago RS2 and RS4 attenuated lesion scores of pancreatic tissue whereas the liver and kidney tissues significantly showed lesser lesion scores compared to the control diabetic group suggesting the potential of RS in reducing cell degeneration. Conclusion: Findings of this study indicates that RS2 showed greater glucose-lowering effect when compared to RS4, thus the therapeutic potential in the T2D management should be further explored.

Effect of Physical and Enzymatic Modifications on Composition, Properties and In Vitro Starch Digestibility of Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) Seed Flour

In this study, native lotus seed flour (N-LSF) was modified by different methods, namely, partial gelatinization (PG), heat−moisture treatment (HMT), or pullulanase treatment (EP). Their composition, functional properties, starch composition, and estimated glycemic index (eGI) were compared. PG contained similar protein, soluble dietary fiber, and insoluble dietary fiber contents to N-LSF, while those of HMT and EP differed from their native form. PG increased rapid digestible starch (RDS) but decreased resistant starch (RS); while HMT and EP increased amylose and RS contents to 34.57−39.23% and 86.99−92.52% total starch, respectively. Such differences led to the different pasting properties of the modified flours rather than PG, which was comparable to the native flour. HMT had limited pasting properties, while EP gave the highest viscosities upon pasting. The eGI of all samples could be classified as low (<50), except that of PG, which was in the medium range (60). It was plausible that lotus seed flour modified either with HMT or EP could be used as carbohydrate source for diabetes patients or health-conscious people.

Whole grain rice: Updated understanding of starch digestibility and the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism

Nowadays, resulting from disordered glucose and lipid metabolism, metabolic diseases (e.g., hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes, and obesity) are among the most serious health issues facing humans worldwide. Increasing evidence has confirmed that dietary intervention (with healthy foods) is effective at regulating the metabolic syndrome. Whole grain rice (WGR) rich in dietary fiber and many bioactive compounds (e.g., γ-amino butyric acid, γ-oryzanol, and polyphenols) can not only inhibit starch digestion and prevent rapid increase in the blood glucose level, but also reduce oxidative stress and damage to the liver, thereby regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. The rate of starch digestion is directly related to the blood glucose level in the organism after WGR intake. Therefore, the effects of different factors (e.g., additives, cooking, germination, and physical treatments) on WGR starch digestibility are examined in this review. In addition, the mechanisms from human and animal experiments regarding the correlation between the intake of WGR or its products and the lowered blood glucose and lipid levels and the reduced incidence of diabetes and obesity are discussed. Moreover, information on developing WGR products with the health benefits is provided.

Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis): Chemical compositions, physicochemical properties, health benefits, and food applications

Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis), also called red bean, is a legume of Fabaceae (Leguminosae) family. This crop is native to East Asia and is also commercially available in other parts of the world. It is becoming a research focus owing to its distinct nutritional properties (e.g., abundant in polyphenols). The diverse health benefits and multiple utilization of this pulse are associated with its unique composition. However, there is a paucity of reviews focusing on the nutritional properties and potent applications of adzuki beans. This review summarizes the chemical compositions, physicochemical properties, health benefits, processing, and applications of adzuki beans. Suggestions on how to better utilize the adzuki bean are also provided to facilitate its development as a functional grain. Adzuki bean and its components can be further developed into value-added and nutritionally enhanced products.

Pulse consumption improves indices of glycemic control in adults with and without type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of acute and long-term randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

Findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effect of pulse intake on glycemic control are inconsistent and conclusive evidence is lacking. The aim of this study was to systematically review the impact of pulse consumption on post-prandial and long-term glycemic control in adults with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

Databases were searched for RCTs, reporting outcomes of post-prandial and long-term interventions with different pulse types on parameters of glycemic control in normoglycemic and T2D adults. Effect size (ES) was calculated using random effect model and meta-regression was conducted to assess the impact of various moderator variables such as pulse type, form, dose, and study duration on ES.

RESULTS

From 3334 RCTs identified, 65 studies were eligible for inclusion involving 2102 individuals. In acute RCTs, pulse intake significantly reduced peak post-prandial glucose concentration in participants with T2D (ES  - 2.90; 95%CI  - 4.60,  - 1.21; p ≤ 0.001; I2 = 93%) and without T2D (ES  - 1.38; 95%CI  - 1.78,  - 0.99; p ≤ 0.001; I2 = 86%). Incorporating pulse consumption into long-term eating patterns significantly attenuated fasting glucose in normoglycemic adults (ES  - 0.06; 95%CI  - 0.12, 0.00; p ≤ 0.05; I2 = 30%). Whereas, in T2D participants, pulse intake significantly lowered fasting glucose (ES  - 0.54; 95%CI  - 0.83,  - 0.24; p ≤ 0.001; I2 = 78%), glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (ES  - 0.17; 95%CI  - 0.33, 0.00; p ≤ 0.05; I2 = 78) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (ES  - 0.47; 95%CI  - 1.25,  - 0.31; p ≤ 0.05; I2 = 79%).

CONCLUSION

Pulse consumption significantly reduced acute post-prandial glucose concentration > 1 mmol/L in normoglycemic adults and > 2.5 mmol/L in those with T2D, and improved a range of long-term glycemic control parameters in adults with and without T2D. PROSPERO REGISTRY NUMBER: (CRD42019162322).

Investigating the Impact of Extruded Dehulled Adlay with Specific In Vitro Digestion Properties on Blood Lipids in Subjects with Mild to Moderate Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), is modifiable by diet and lifestyle changes. A large population with mild to moderate dyslipidemia is at risk of developing CVDs, and early initiation of preventive measures can avert advancing into severe medical conditions. Studies suggest increasing slowly digestible starch (SDS) in diets can help lower blood lipids. We processed dehulled adlay, a cereal rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and phytosterols, into an instant meal by extrusion and milling and then assessed its starch composition and in vitro digestibility. The dehulled adlay was found to consist of 32% SDS and resistant starch combined. Then, eligible subjects with dyslipidemia were recruited to explore the adlay’s hypolipidemic potential, safety, and acceptability. Subjects consumed the dehulled adlay as the sole carbohydrate source in their breakfast, without changing other components in the diet or lifestyle, for 12 weeks. After intervention, serum total cholesterol (TC) decreased significantly in subjects with hypercholesterolemia. In addition, both TC and triglyceride levels decreased significantly in those above 50 years old. In conclusion, the extruded dehulled adlay displays potential for favorably modulating blood lipids, and the effect is more pronounced in the middle-aged population.

Effects of Resistant Starch Interventions on Metabolic Biomarkers in Pre-Diabetes and Diabetes Adults

Simple lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition to maintaining a physically active way of life, the diet has become one of the bases in managing TD2M. Due to many studies linking the ability of resistant starch (RS) to a substantial role in enhancing the nutritional quality of food and disease prevention, the challenge of incorporating RS into the diet and increasing its intake remains. Therefore, we conducted this review to assess the potential benefits of RS on metabolic biomarkers in pre-diabetes and diabetes adults based on available intervention studies over the last decade. Based on the conducted review, we observed that RS intake correlates directly to minimize possible effects through different mechanisms for better control of pre-diabetic and diabetic conditions. In most studies, significant changes were evident in the postprandial glucose and insulin incremental area under the curve (iAUC). Comparative evaluation of RS consumption and control groups also showed differences with inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-1β, MCP-1, and E-selectin. Only RS2 and RS3 were extensively investigated and widely reported among the five reported RS types. However, a proper comparison and conclusion are deemed inappropriate considering the variations observed with the study duration, sample size, subjects and their metabolic conditions, intervention doses, and the intervention base products. In conclusion, this result provides interesting insights into the potential use of RS as part of a sustainable diet in diabetes management and should be further explored in terms of the mechanism involved.

Antidiabetic Phytochemicals From Medicinal Plants: Prospective Candidates for New Drug Discovery and Development

Diabetes, a chronic physiological dysfunction affecting people of different age groups and severely impairs the harmony of peoples' normal life worldwide. Despite the availability of insulin preparations and several synthetic oral antidiabetic drugs, there is a crucial need for the discovery and development of novel antidiabetic drugs because of the development of resistance and side effects of those drugs in long-term use. On the contrary, plants or herbal sources are getting popular day by day to the scientists, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies all over the world to search for potential bioactive compound(s) for the discovery and development of targeted novel antidiabetic drugs that may control diabetes with the least unwanted effects of conventional antidiabetic drugs. In this review, we have presented the prospective candidates comprised of either isolated phytochemical(s) and/or extract(s) containing bioactive phytoconstituents which have been reported in several in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies possessing noteworthy antidiabetic potential. The mode of actions, attributed to antidiabetic activities of the reported phytochemicals and/or plant extracts have also been described to focus on the prospective phytochemicals and phytosources for further studies in the discovery and development of novel antidiabetic therapeutics.

Whole grain intake, compared to refined grain, improves postprandial glycemia and insulinemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Whole grain (WG) intake has been associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and may protect against T2D by lowering postprandial glycemia and insulinemia and improving insulin sensitivity. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of WG intake, compared to refined grain (RG) intake, on postprandial glycemia and insulinemia and markers of glycemic control and insulin resistance in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in adults. A search of PubMed and Scopus yielded 80 relevant RCTs. Compared to RG, WG intake significantly reduced postprandial glycemia (SMD: -0.30; 95% CI: -0.43, -0.18; P < 0.001), insulinemia (SMD: -0.23; 95% CI: -0.35, -0.10; P < 0.001) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (SMD: -0.21; 95% CI: -0.37, -0.06; P = 0.007). There was no effect of WG on fasting glucose, fasting insulin, or homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). These results suggest WG foods improve short-term glycemia and insulinemia, which may improve HbA1c, a marker of long-term glycemic control. This may partially explain the inverse association between WG intake and risk of T2D, but further investigations are needed to understand if short-term reductions in glycemia translate to longer term benefits in reducing the risk of T2D.Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO Registration CRD42020180069.

Coix Seed May Affect Human Immune Function

Coix ( Coix lacryma-jobi Linné . var . mayuen Stapf) is, unlike many herbs used in Chinese traditional medicines, often used as a single agent. Coix seed has its specific constituents coixenolide and coixol. This review summarizes the effects of coix seed on human pathology and physiology, and the roles of coixenolide and coixol on the effects. The comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Citation Information by National Institute of Informatics of Japan (CiNii), University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR), and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. Some studies suggest that coix seed promotes the spontaneous regression of viral infections of the skin. Meanwhile, kanglite, a purified oil agent used for cancer therapy, has been implied to increase the ratio of CD4 + T cells in the peripheral blood of cancer patients undergoing treatment. These studies seem to indicate that coix seed may affect cellular immune function. However, there are limitations to the individual studies on which the above consideration is based, and thereby, it is not conclusive what specific immune or clinical indices coix seed affects. In addition, the effects of coixol on human immune function have not been clarified. Therefore, coix seed seems promising for health promotion and presents a challengeable and attractive theme for natural product chemists, pharmacologists, immunologists, and clinicians.

A glycaemic index compendium of non-western foods

Current international tables published on the glycaemic index (GI) of foods represent valuable resources for researchers and clinicians. However, the vast majority of published GI values are of Western origin, notably European, Australian and North American. Since these tables focus on Western foods with minimal inclusion of other foods from non-Western countries, their application is of limited global use. The objective of this review is to provide the GI values for a variety of foods that are consumed in non-Western countries. Our review extends and expands on the current GI tables in an attempt to widen its application in many other regions of the world.

Natural edible materials made of protein-functionalized aerogel particles for postprandial hyperglycemia management

α-Amylase inhibitors (α-AIs) delay digestion of dietary starch by inhibiting α-amylase in the gut, thereby reducing the postprandial glycemia, which is beneficial to the patients with obesity and diabetes. The proteinaceous α-AIs from wheat can effectively control starch digestion and regulate postprandial hyperglycemia. However, their gastric intolerance remains a challenge, which limits its commercial production and industrial application. In this study, sodium alginate/chitosan aerogels loaded with wheat protein α-AIs were prepared and evaluated as potential transportation and protection matrices for important components in food or pharmaceutical applications. Specifically, the biodegradable aerogel cross-linked with sodium alginate-chitosan-calcium chloride, has a large surface area and open porous structure, which can adsorb staple wheat proteins as an integrated edible material to block around 88,660 U/g of α-amylase activity. The aerogel particles were able to protect the activity of wheat α-AIs in the stomach, leading to the slow passage of the wheat α-AIs through the small intestine to inhibit starch digestion more effectively. Animal experiments further showed that the postprandial blood glucose levels in rats were effectively controlled through delayed increase, after administration of wheat protein-functionalized aerogel particles loaded with wheat α-AIs, which are natural biological macromolecules. This is a novel, safe, and economical method for the prevention and pretreatment of diabetes.