Large-Scale Study Links Protein and Fat Consumption to Better Insulin Management

New research, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, indicated that incorporating proteins and fats into your diet can be as crucial as carbohydrates for managing blood sugar levels.

Conducted by the University of British Columbia (UBC), this first large-scale study compared the insulin response to carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The findings revealed that insulin regulation, the hormone responsible for controlling blood sugar, is more dynamic and individualized than previously understood. The study also identified a hyper-responsiveness to fatty foods in certain individuals.

Consuming fats and proteins alongside carbohydrates can help manage blood sugar levels more effectively. Fats and proteins slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, reducing blood sugar spikes and helping maintain stable insulin levels. This balanced approach can improve overall insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, making it beneficial for those with insulin resistance or diabetes. Additionally, these macronutrients provide sustained energy, support muscle repair, and promote satiety, contributing to better overall health.

Researchers analysed pancreatic islets from 140 cadaveric donors, covering a diverse age range of males and females, to the three macronutrients. The majority of the donors’ islets showed the highest insulin response to glucose, a moderate response to amino acids, and a minimal response to fatty acids. However, 9% of the donors exhibited a greater insulin response to amino acids, and 8% to fatty acids, compared to glucose.

Additionally, the study analysed pancreatic islet cells from individuals with type 2 diabetes. Despite their anticipated low insulin response to glucose, their insulin response to protein remained consistent. A comprehensive protein and gene expression analysis of the pancreatic islets provided deeper insights into the molecular and cellular factors influencing insulin production.

The researchers concluded that genetic testing could identify which macronutrients most effectively stimulate an individual’s insulin response. Furthermore, they aim to test insulin responses to the three macronutrients in everyday settings and use these findings to develop personalized nutrition strategies.

Reference: Jelena Kolic, WenQing Grace Sun, Haoning Howard Cen, Leonard J. Foster, Patrick E. MacDonald, James D. Johnson; Proteomic predictors of individualized nutrient-specific insulin secretion in health and disease; Cell Metabolism, Open Access; DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2024.06.001