Ultra Processed and Fried Foods Escalate Diabetes Crisis in India: ICMR-MDRF Clinical Trial
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A pioneering clinical trial by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has uncovered the significant role of ultra-processed and fried foods, rich in Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), in contributing to India’s escalating diabetes crisis. This landmark study, conducted by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, an ICMR Centre for Advanced Research in Diabetes, indicates that adopting low- Advanced Glycation End-products diets could be a promising strategy to mitigate diabetes risk.
The research, funded by the Department of Biotechnology and published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, identified high- Advanced Glycation End-products foods including red meat, french fries, bakery products, parathas, samosas, and sugary treats. Advanced Glycation End-products are harmful compounds formed through glycation, where sugars modify proteins or lipids, leading to various health complications like inflammation, oxidative stress, insulin resistance, and cellular damage.
Over 12 weeks, 38 overweight and obese participants (BMI of 23 or higher) followed either a high- Advanced Glycation End-products or low- Advanced Glycation End-products diet. Results showed that those on the low- Advanced Glycation End-products diet experienced improved insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels, while participants on the high- Advanced Glycation End-products diet exhibited increased Advanced Glycation End-products levels and inflammation.
To reduce diabetes risk, researchers advocate for a low- Advanced Glycation End-products diet that includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, fish, boiled foods, and brown rice. The study emphasized that cooking methods such as frying, roasting, and grilling elevate Advanced Glycation End-products levels, whereas boiling helps keep them in check.
Dr. V Mohan, chairman of the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, noted that obesity, physical inactivity, and consumption of unhealthy diets rich in Advanced Glycation End-products are the primary factors behind India’s diabetes epidemic.
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