Home >  Diet and nutrition MDTV >  Diet and nutrition Shorts >  Dried Fruit Consumption...

Dried Fruit Consumption Linked to Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Study

By - Anshika Mishra
Published On 2024-07-16 02:30 GMT   |   Update On 2024-07-16 02:30 GMT
Advertisement
In a recent study published in the journal Nutrition and Metabolism, researchers evaluated the causal effects of dried fruit intake on type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Dried fruits have become popular among people seeking healthier alternatives to snacks. However, concerns regarding its sugar content have emerged regarding T2D. T2D represents a significant public health challenge due to its associations with complications, such as nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, and kidney dysfunction.
Dried fruits contain essential nutrients, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, enriching a balanced diet. However, sugars in dried fruits are rapidly released into the bloodstream, causing spikes in postprandial glycemia, which could be challenging for those striving to stabilize glucose levels.
However, there has been a shift in this perspective, with dried fruits now being recognized for their fiber levels, micronutrients, and minimal fat content relative to their fresh counterparts. Animal studies and randomized controlled trials have suggested the potential benefits of dried fruits in cardiovascular diseases.
Advertisement
In the study, researchers explored the potential causal link between dried fruit consumption and type 2 diabetes (T2D) using a method called Mendelian randomization (MR). They used genetic data from a large UK Biobank study involving over 500,000 participants who provided information through questionnaires and measurements. The frequency of dried fruit intake was recorded, and T2D data came from a genetic study with over 61,700 cases and 593,952 controls.
The team identified specific genetic markers (SNPs) associated with dried fruit consumption. They used these markers to analyse the causal effects of dried fruit intake on T2D risk, employing the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method. Additional methods like the weighted median and MR-Egger were used to support the findings.
The researchers found 43 genetic markers (SNPs) linked to dried fruit intake and selected 36 as instrumental variables, excluding those linked to other factors.
The study revealed a causal relationship between higher dried fruit intake and lower risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Specifically, increasing dried fruit intake by one standard deviation was linked to a 61% reduction in T2D risk.
Dried fruits also contain substantial levels of β-carotene, which is protective against T2D development. They also contain diverse flavonoids associated with improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The findings highlighted that dried fruit intake was associated with reduced T2D risk.
Reference: Guan J, Liu T, Yang K, Chen H. Dried fruit intake and lower risk of type 2 diabetes: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Nutrition & Metabolism, DOI: 10.1186/s12986-024-00813-z, https://nutritionandmetabolism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12986-024-00813-z
Full View
Tags:    
Article Source : Nutrition and Metabolism

Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.

NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.

Anshika Mishra

Anshika Mishra is a dedicated scholar pursuing a Masters in Biotechnology, driven by a profound passion for exploring the intersection of science and healthcare. Having embarked on this academic journey with a passion to make meaningful contributions to the medical field, Anshika joined Medical Dialogues in 2023 to further delve into the realms of healthcare journalism.

Comments Policy
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Similar News

Sausages, Sodas, and Cancer: Ultra-Processed Foods May Be Linked to Higher Lung Cancer Risk

This Night-Time Snack May Alter Gut Bacteria and Support Metabolic Health: Study Finds

Why Grapes Might Deserve a Spot Among Superfoods? Study Explores

"Sugar-Free" but Not Risk-Free: Popular Sugar Substitute May Be Linked to Stroke, Study Finds

What Contributes More to Obesity-Poor Diet or Lack of Exercise? Study Sheds Light

Can Having 2 Eggs for Breakfast Improve Your Cholesterol Profile? Study Finds Out

1.5 Cups of Grapes a Day May Help Combat Age-Related Muscle Loss: Study Shows

These Diets May Help Prevent Chronic Constipation: Study Shows