Potato and Bean Diets Equally Effective for Weight Loss and Insulin Resistance: Study

Potatoes have often been vilified for their high carbohydrate content and presumed negative impact on blood glucose control, especially in individuals with insulin resistance. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, diets low in energy density and high in either potatoes or beans are effective for weight loss and improving insulin resistance in individuals with impaired blood glucose control.

However, this study challenges these assumptions by investigating the effects of low-energy density diets containing potatoes or beans on weight loss and insulin resistance. The study employed a randomized, parallel design, controlled feeding approach, comparing the effects of Potato and Bean diets on 36 participants with insulin resistance over an 8-week period.

Participants' body weight, blood glucose levels, and insulin resistance were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks. Equivalence between the two diets was evaluated based on the mean change in blood glucose concentration.

• Both Potato and Bean diets resulted in significant weight loss: Potato (-5.6% ± 0.6%) and Bean (-4.1% ± 0.6%).

• Equivalence in blood glucose control between the two diets was achieved, with reductions in insulin resistance observed in both groups.

• Compliance with the diets was high (87-88%), indicating adherence to the prescribed dietary regimens.

• Participants reported feeling fuller and more satisfied with meals containing potatoes, leading to reduced calorie consumption.

The study concludes that both Potato and Bean diets low in energy density are equally effective in reducing insulin resistance and promoting weight loss in individuals with impaired blood glucose control. Contrary to common belief, potatoes do not adversely affect blood glucose levels and can be incorporated into a healthy diet to aid in weight management.

Reference:

Rebello, C. J., Beyl, R. A., Greenway, F. L., Atteberry, K. C., Hoddy, K. K., & Kirwan, J. P. Low-energy dense potato- and bean-based diets reduce body weight and insulin resistance: A randomized, feeding, equivalence trial. Journal of Medicinal Food,2022;25(12):1155–1163. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2022.0072