Higher consumption of Allium vegetables may modulate insulin homeostasis: A longitudinal follow-up study

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study investigated the association between habitual consumption of allium vegetables (raw garlic and onion) and the incidence of insulin resistance (IR), β-cell dysfunction and hyperinsulinemia. MethodsAdult men and women, participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006–2008 to 2009–2011), were recruited. Habitual dietary intakes were assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Fasting serum insulin (FSI) and fasting glucose were measured at baseline and again after 3 years. Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and HOMA of β-cell function were calculated. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the occurrence of IR, β-cell dysfunction and hyperinsulinemia across tertiles of allium vegetable intakes, with adjustment for potential confounding variables. ResultsMean age of participants was 39.0 ± 11.2 years and 45.5% were men. Baseline mean FSI and HOMA-IR was 8.9 ± 5.0 μU/mL, 1.93 ± 1.22, and 149 ± 86, respectively. Compared to the lowest tertile, the highest category of allium vegetables intake (≥142 vs. <8.0 g/week) was accompanied with a significant decreased risk of IR (OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.38–1.00) and hyperinsulinemia (OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.36-0.96). There was no significant association between allium vegetable intakes and β-cell function. ConclusionHigher consumption of allium vegetables may be considered as a nutritional strategy to improve glucose/insulin homeostasis.