Does consuming grains help improve type 2 diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood sugar levels, has seen a dramatic global prevalence increase, projected to exceed 700 million by 2045. Alongside medical treatments, dietary changes are key in managing the condition. Ancient cereals, untouched by human genetic modification, offer promising benefits against diabetes mellitus. These grains contain higher levels of phytochemicals and fibers known to lower blood sugar compared to modern varieties.

In the present review, researchers aimed to discuss evidence from the literature investigating ancient grain consumption outcomes on DM patients. Specifically, the review provided an overview of the glycemic control impacts of ancient grains on T1DM and T2DM; the ancient grains most often studied using randomized controlled trial methodologies, and the effectiveness of ancient-grain-based diets in managing DM as conventional therapeutic enhancers.

Meta-analysis results highlighted that while the consumption of ancient grains does produce generally positive outcomes in T2DM patients (especially in the case of oats, brown rice, and millets), inter-study heterogeneity makes these results lacking in reliability, preventing their current recommendations as anti-DM interventions.

The study suggested that ancient grains may help in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) due to their higher fiber content, lower glycemic index, and rich array of phytochemicals. These grains, untouched by modern genetic modification, can help stabilize blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation associated with T2DM. Additionally, their balanced nutrient profile and potential prebiotic effects on gut health contribute to overall well-being in individuals with diabetes. Incorporating ancient grains into the diet presents a promising dietary strategy for T2DM management and improved health outcomes.

"Further emphasis should be placed in designing future RCTs with better definition of dietary interventions, adequate sample sizes for relevant clinical outcomes, and sufficient duration of treatment. Furthermore, studies specifically designed for patients with Diabetes mellitus should be implemented," said the study authors.

Reference: Magi, C. E., Rasero, L., Mannucci, E., Bonaccorsi, G., Ranaldi, F., Pazzagli, L., Faraoni, P., Mulinacci, N., Bambi, S., Longobucco, Y., Dicembrini, I., & Iovino, P. (2024). Use of ancient grains for the management of diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, 34(5), 1110-1128, DOI – 10.1016/j.numecd.2024.03.005, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0939475324000929