Low Glycemic Index Research Articles

Dietary fibre from seeds of Australia native Plantago species as modulators of quality and glycaemic response in starch gels

Dietary fibre (DF) is a non-digestible nutrient which has important roles in the digestive system including mantaining regularity, and reducing the risk of certain cancers and non-communicable diseases, such as metabolic syndrome. Even though the positive health effects of DF have long been established, it has been shown that DF intake for children and adults in Australia is below the recommended range – less than 20% of adults met the suggested intake for reducing risk of chronic diseases(1). Plantago ovata, also known as psyllium, is widely used as DF supplement with evidence showing positive effects on weight control, hyperglycaemic response, cholesterol levels, and irritable bowel syndrome(2). P. ovata seed husk produces a highly viscous gel called mucilage when seeds are exposed to moisture. This mucilage is nearly pure DF and has an intricately layered structure which can be further fractionated and studied as a proxy for different gelling systems. Interestingly, Australia is home to many mucilage-producing Plantago species, most of which are underexplored and underutilised, but show remarkable gelling properties and hypoglycaemic potential(3). In this work, we compare structural and functional properties of fractionated DF from P. ovata, and two promising Australian native relatives, P. turrifera and P. drummondii, and their effect on enzymatic hydrolysis in potato starch gels. Using a 3-step fractionation method, we have separated distinct fractions and explored their individual properties(4). P. turrifera and P. drummondii have higher water absorbing capacity, DF yield, and viscosity compared to P. ovata. Monosaccharide composition of all three species is similar – they are highly substituted heteroxylans with minor pectic component. Notably, arabinose to xylose ratio in all species increases with further extraction steps, which is different from cereal arabinoxylans. In an attempt to explore impact of DF in starch-rich systems, we have fabricated DF-potato starch gels and measured enzymatic hydrolysis (with porcine pancreatic α-amylase), freeze-thaw stability, and colour change. Addition of DF reduced syneresis (water separation) during 15 day freeze-thaw cycle measurement, which can lead to prolonged storage stability and has positive implications for shelf life. Colour change was most noticeable when P. drumondii DF were added, while colour of P. ovata and P. turiferra DF gels was similar to control potato starch gel. Effects on α-amylase starch hydrolysis were significant as well, and depended on species and fractions. Certain DFs had impacts on constant k (speed of hydrolysis), while effects on the extent of hydrolysis are still being explored. In conclusion, utility of Australia native P. turrifera and P. drumondii DFs are evident when applied to starch gels, and should be further explored in food products such as bread to increase DF intake and possibly lower glycaemic index.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Reduces Gastrointestinal Symptoms

AbstractIn this explorative longitudinal survey, self-reported data was collected from persons suffering from chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, who were seeking relief employing self-medication with a grapefruit seed extract (GKE). This is not a clinical trial nor a non-interventional study, but an explorative longitudinal survey with self-reports. The data was collected online and there were no personal contacts with a physician or a study nurse. Participants followed their own decision to use GKE and to provide their data to a data retrieval system, following informed consent according to existing national regulations on data protection. The test product was provided by the sponsor to make sure that the correct product was used for the intended observation period.Drop in criteria were chronic gastrointestinal symptoms, including those of functional dyspepsia (FD, resp. non-ulcer dyspepsia NUD) and/or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) for more than 4 weeks, resulting in a score of an expanded Nepean Index (‘total gastrointestinal score’) higher than 20. Symptoms were documented 4–12 days (VA) prior to GKE use on day 1 and then on day 1, days 28, 42 and 56 of continuous oral use. New symptoms, predominating symptoms, stool habits, amount of oral intake and global status was retrieved every day during the observation period. On day 56 some global assessments were additionally recorded.The evaluation cohort was intended to be at least 100, and within the survey cohort we were able to evaluate 100 subjects (15 m and 85 f). Total gastrointestinal symptom score decreased from a mean (±SD) of 78.7±36.9 points by 26.4% on day 14, by 53.1% on day 28, by 58.7% on day 42, and by 49.9% on day 56, when compared to day 1. Upper gastrointestinal symptoms like heartburn improved better compared to lower GI symptoms (by 57.9% versus 47.3% on day 56). Overall complaints were rated as “very strongly improved” by 30%, “strongly improved” by 42%, “somewhat improved” or “unchanged” by 20% and as “deteriorated” by 1%. GKE was tolerated well. Minor adverse events reported were judged as most probably unrelated by the authors. More than half of the participants rated the intake as “very pleasant” or “pleasant” and intended to continue GKE beyond the observation period.In this prospective uncontrolled survey, GKE seemed to improve GI-symptoms, based on users reports. These results need to be confirmed in controlled clinical trials proofing efficacy and tolerance of GKE in functional GI-diseases. Data collected from participants without any personal contact bear a high risk of bias. Evaluation of self-treatment as presented here is clearly restricted to marketed products and may report interesting details of self-treatment outside prescription settings.

Exploring the Proximate Composition, Antioxidant Content, Glycemic Index, and Microbiological Analysis of Idiyappam Enriched with Black Rice (Oryza sativa L. indica) Flour

ABSTRACT: Notwithstanding being rich in numerous antioxidant components, black rice flour hasn't been frequently used in the manufacture of food goods. This study aimed to create idiyappam, examine its proximate compositions, minerals, antioxidant, glycemic, organoleptic and shelf-life attributes. The study focused on evaluating these qualities in idiyappam produced with various replacement levels of black rice flour and white rice flour, in various proportions with 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The findings showed that the idiyappam with 100% raw black rice flour (BRFI4) had significantly higher levels of total dietary fiber, protein but can be found that it has a lowest of moisture content, while carbohydrates and fat content can be seen more in BRFI1. There were noticeable differences in mineral composition among the various formulations. BRFI4 exhibited strong antioxidant potential, and all formulations had a low glycemic index. BRFI3 received superior sensory ratings compared to the other idiyappam variations. The shelf-life study revealed substantial variation among the idiyappam formulations after 5 days of storage. This study highlights that incorporating black rice flour into idiyappam not only enhances the levels of protein, dietary fiber, but also results in low glycemic index values and favorable organoleptic evaluations, particularly up to a 75% substitution level.

Diabetes Risk Reduction Diet and Colorectal Cancer Risk.

Diabetes has been associated with colorectal cancer. We evaluated whether adherence to a diabetes risk reduction diet (DRRD) can favorably influence the risk of colorectal cancer. Data came from a multicentric Italian case-control study including 1,953 histologically confirmed colorectal cancer cases and 4,154 hospital controls admitted for acute nonneoplastic diseases. Diet was assessed through a validated and reproducible food frequency questionnaire. The DRRD score was computed assigning higher values for higher consumption of cereal fiber, fruit, coffee, nuts and a higher polyunsaturated/saturated fats ratio and for lower glycemic index and lower consumption of red/processed meat and sweetened beverages and fruit juices. The ORs and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) of colorectal cancer according to the DRRD score were obtained using logistic regression models adjusting for total energy intake and other major confounders. The DRRD was inversely related to colorectal cancer risk. The ORs of colorectal cancer were 0.77 (95% CI, 0.67-0.89) for the third versus first score tertile (Ptrend < 0.001) and 0.92 (95% CI, 0.87-0.96) for a 3-point increment in the score. Inverse associations were observed for colon and rectal cancers and were consistent in strata of sex, age, and other major covariates. A higher adherence to a DRRD was inversely associated with colorectal cancer risk. Given the high incidence and mortality rates of colorectal cancer, adherence to a DRRD can have relevant prevention and public health implications.

&lt;i&gt;In Vitro&lt;/i&gt; Study of the Nutrients, Antioxidant, Glycemic Activities, and Storage Stability of the Instant Tamarind Seed Kernel Powder Soup Mix

This study aimed to develop a soup mix using roasted tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) seed kernel powder and evaluate its physical, chemical, mineral, and sensory characteristics, as well as glycemic response, antioxidant activity, and shelf life. Four different formulations of Tamarind seed kernel powder Soup Mixes (TSM1-10%, TSM2-20%, TSM3-30%, and TSM4-40%) of tamarind seed kernel powder were used to replace corn flour, and a control group (100% corn flour) was also tested. The physicochemical, mineral, sensory characteristics, antioxidant activity, glycemic response, and shelf life of each soup mix were evaluated using standard procedures. TSM4 had the best physical properties, while chemical analysis showed that this formulation had the highest protein content (11.31%) and caloric value (404.99 Kcal/100g). TSM4 also had the highest mineral composition and the greatest levels of TFC (23.12mg/100g), TPC (14.08mg/100g), and DPPH activity (112.41%). All five soup mix formulations had low glycemic indices and low glycemic loads. Sensory analysis indicated that TSM3, which contained 30% tamarind seed kernel powder, was the most acceptable option, with an overall acceptability score of 8.04. Shelf-life evaluation showed that the Total Plate Count (TPC) and fungal growth increased significantly over time, but the soup mixes could be stored for up to 15 days. The study found that the prepared soup mixes were more cost-effective and affordable than commercial soup mixes available in the market. Additionally, the research explored the effect of processing steps on these compounds and innovation trends for developing healthier soups that cater to specific consumer requirements.

Effect of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa W.) flour supplementation in breads on the lipid profile and glycemic index: an in vivo study.

Quinoa is a gluten-free pseudocereal, with an excellent nutrient profile containing considerable amounts of fiber and minerals and rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of quinoa bread on physical, chemical, bioactive components, glycaemic index (GI), and biochemical parameters. Human subjects aged between 20 and 50 years with the absence of morbid factors were fed daily with quinoa bread for 3 months in order to study its pre-and post-treatment effects on blood glucose, glycosylated haemoglobin, and lipid profile. The effort was made to incorporate the maximum amount of quinoa into the bread without compromising the acceptability of the bread. Of the 14 formulations, TQ13, containing 20% quinoa flour with 3% wheat bran, was selected for further analysis. The GI study revealed that quinoa bread peaked at 45 min with a gradual increase after ingestion of the bread and a steady decline thereafter. The observed value for blood glucose levels, before and after supplementation with quinoa-incorporated bread, was 86.96 ± 15.32 mg/dL and 84.25 ± 18.26 mg/dL, respectively. There was a statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very-LDL (VLDL) level before and after supplementation. However, non-significant changes were observed for high-density lipoprotein levels from the pre- and post-treatment with the quinoa-incorporated bread. Quinoa-incorporated bread possessed low GI (42.00 ± 0.83) compared to control (69.20 ± 1.84) and long-term consumption proved to contain functional efficacies in terms of hypolipidemic effect.

Abstract 5059: Robust single sample consensus molecular subtype classification for primary and metastatic colorectal cancer

Abstract Introduction Consensus Molecular Subtypes (CMS) represent a well-established molecular stratification framework for colorectal cancer (CRC). Existing methods for CMS classification rely on a representative input cohort as a preprocessing step (CMScaller) or have difficulty generalizing to metastatic samples (CMSclassifier). We developed Tempus CMS to overcome these limitations. Our method normalizes gene expression data from input samples to a static reference cohort to enable single sample classification of both primary and metastatic tumors. We evaluated the performance of this classifier on a large, de-identified CRC cohort comprising 8,489 samples from primary and metastatic sites. Methods To normalize input data, our method shifts and scales each gene expression value based on the mean and standard deviation of the expression of that gene in the reference cohort (n=2,787 primary and metastatic CRC). CMS calls are then generated via nearest template prediction similar to CMScaller (Eide et al., 2017). The analysis cohort was selected from clinical biopsies within 30 days of primary or metastatic diagnosis excluding reference cohort samples. CMS calls were assessed by comparing subtype prevalence to reported rates and by testing for known enrichments of pathways and genomic markers. Results Subtype prevalences for lower gastrointestinal (GI) biopsies and resections (n=5,090) were comparable to reported rates for primary CRC tumors: CMS1 - 12%, CMS2 - 28%, CMS3 - 19%, and CMS4 - 33% with 7.6% no calls. Biopsies from metastatic tissue showed site-specific changes in prevalence: CMS2 increased to 43% in liver samples (n=1,715) and CMS4 was identified in 49% of samples from metastatic sites excluding the liver (n=1,684). In addition, we found that purity had an effect on prevalence: in lower GI tumors with ≥ 50% tumor purity rates of CMS2 and CMS4 were 34% and 26%, respectively, while rates in tumors with purity between 20% and 50% were 20% CMS2 and 41% CMS4. Across all tissue groups, pathway enrichment showed significant associations, including TGF-ꞵ signaling in CMS4 (adj P ≤ 4.4e-15) and cell differentiation in CMS3 (adj P ≤ 3.0e-27). Expected enrichments of CMS markers were also observed: BRAF mutations and microsatellite instability in CMS1 and KRAS mutations in CMS3. In liver tissue, higher KRAS mutation rates were noted in CMS1 (57%) and CMS3 (83%) compared to GI tissue (35% and 67%, respectively). Conclusions In this study, we developed an enhanced, single sample CMS-calling algorithm optimized for primary and metastatic sites. Application of this algorithm in a large cohort recapitulated known biology, which suggests that the tool can be used to support clinical studies requiring robust molecular stratification. Citation Format: Andrew J. Sedgewick, Tushar Chandra, Timothy Taxter, Justin Guinney. Robust single sample consensus molecular subtype classification for primary and metastatic colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5059.

Insights into the effect mechanism of acidic pH condition on the in vitro starch digestion of black highland barley semi-dried noodles

In this study, black highland barley semi-dried noodles (BHBSNs) were adjusted to acidic pH (5.0, 4.5, 4.0) with an acidity regulator (monosodium fumarate) for obtaining low glycemic index (GI) BHBSNs, and the changes in the in vitro starch digestion, free phenolic content, and α-amylase activity in BHBSNs were investigated. The estimated glycemic index (eGI) of BHBSNs decreased from 59.23 to 52.59, 53.89 and 53.61, respectively, as the pH was adjusted from 6.0 to 5.0, 4.5, 4.0. As the pH of BHBSNs decreased, the equilibrium hydrolysis (C∞) decreased, and kinetic coefficient (k) decreased and then increased. Compared to the control, the pH of the digestive fluid decreased during digestion with decreasing pH, and the α-amylase inhibition of BHBSNs with pH 5.0, 4.5, and 4.0 increased by 56.54 %, 75.18 %, and 107.98 %, respectively. In addition, as the pH of BHBSNs decreased, the free phenolic content and the content of released phenolics during digestion increased. Pearson correlations analysis showed that the increase in α-amylase inhibition and phenolic release during digestion induced by acidic pH was negatively correlated with the eGI and C∞ of BHBSNs. This study indicated that acidic pH condition could modulate starch digestion for preparing low GI BHBSNs.

Pearl Millet: Potential Nutraceutical Properties of Pearl Millet and its Utilization in Various Food Products: A Review

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), also called bajra, is an important cereal crop cultivated in the tropics. It is a very hardy crop and can adapt to even very low rainfall. This review paper deals with the discussion of nutraceutical, functional properties and antidiabetic properties of pearl millet. Pearl millet is popular for its nutraceutical property. The bioactive compounds present in pearl millet indicate the efficacy and capacity of the nutraceutical property present in pearl millet. Several products prepared from pearl millet flour were found to induce low glycemic index when compared to wheat flour and many of the few acids present, produced antioxidant activity. Different types of sweet, savoury food products and beverages prepared from pearl millet grains and their flours provide higher potential due to their profound nutritional benefits which include rich dietary fibres, minerals and high protein content. As a result of being a viable low cost crop with several added benefits such as lower incidence of developing mycotoxins, resistance to high temperatures and low rainfall requirements pearl millet is an accessible alternative for consumers in need of highly nutritious, low priced and sustainable food products.

Compositional profiling and bioefficacy studies of pulses-supplemented isocaloric designer biscuits for recently diagnosed diabetic individuals

This study addresses global concerns about diabetes mellitus by exploring a novel approach to manage hyperglycemia through pulses-supplemented designer biscuits. Control and designer biscuits were prepared with varying proportions of wheat flour and pulses (chickpea, mungbean). The pulses-supplemented biscuits exhibited increased protein content and reduced readily available carbohydrates. Selected designer biscuits, with 12.5 % incorporation of chickpea and mungbean pulse flour, demonstrated significantly lower glycemic index (69.17 ± 5.01) and higher satiety index (122.19 ± 8.85) compared to control biscuits. These showed 13 % less glycemic index and 9 % higher satiety index as compared to control biscuits. A four-week bio-efficacy trial involving diabetic subjects consuming these biscuits as a routine snack resulted in an 11.45 % decrease in fasting blood glucose and a 19.15 % reduction in random blood glucose levels. Insulin and HDL levels also significantly improved. The study concludes that these designer biscuits possess a hypoglycemic effect, offering a potential dietary intervention for managing diabetes.

Glucuronic acid confers colonization advantage to enteric pathogens

Glucuronidation is a detoxification process to eliminate endo- and xeno-biotics and neurotransmitters from the host circulation. Glucuronosyltransferase binds these compounds to glucuronic acid (GlcA), deactivating them and allowing their elimination through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. However, the microbiota produces β-glucuronidases that release GlcA and reactivate these compounds. Enteric pathogens such as enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) and Citrobacter rodentium sense and utilize galacturonic acid (GalA), an isomer of GlcA, to outcompete the microbiota promoting gut colonization. However, the role of GlcA in pathogen colonization has not been explored. Here, we show that treatment of mice with a microbial β-glucuronidase inhibitor (GUSi) decreased C. rodentium's colonization of the GI tract, without modulating bacterial virulence or host inflammation. Metagenomic studies indicated that GUSi did not change the composition of the intestinal microbiota in these animals. GlcA confers an advantage for pathogen expansion through its utilization as a carbon source. Congruently mutants unable to catabolize GlcA depict lower GI colonization compared to wild type and are not sensitive to GUSi. Germfree mice colonized with a commensal E. coli deficient for β-glucuronidase production led to a decrease of C. rodentium tissue colonization, compared to animals monocolonized with an E. coli proficient for production of this enzyme. GlcA is not sensed as a signal and doesn't activate virulence expression but is used as a metabolite. Because pathogens can use GlcA to promote their colonization, inhibitors of microbial β-glucuronidases could be a unique therapeutic against enteric infections without disturbing the host or microbiota physiology.

High-resistant starch and low-glutelin content 1 rice benefits gut function in obese patients

The intestinal microbiota plays a crucial role in human health, yet the impact of high-resistant starch and low-glutelin rice in the gut of obese individuals remains unexplored. In this study, different types of rice, namely japonica rice (control), low-glutelin content 1 rice (Lgc1), high-resistant starch and low-glutelin content 1 rice (HR + Lgc1), and commercially available low-glycemic index rice (LowGI), were utilized as samples to examine their in vitro digestion and fermentation, as well as the impact of HR + Lgc1 on the intestinal microbiota in obese individuals. The findings revealed that HR + Lgc1 rice exhibited lower in vitro digestion rates for starch and protein compared to the other three types. Following 24 h of in vitro fermentation, the total short-chain fatty acid content in HR + Lgc1 was 108.67 mmol/L, which was 60.33, 51.26, and 17.29% that in control, Lgc1, and LowGI, respectively. Moreover, HR + Lgc1 rice displayed an inhibitory effect on the production of harmful branched-chain fatty acid metabolites. Analysis through 16S rDNA sequencing indicated that, after fermentation, HR + Lgc1 significantly enhanced the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Parabacteroides, and Faecalibacterium in the gut, whereas it reduced the abundance of harmful bacteria such as Escherichia-shigella. Our findings may contribute to the development of new foods rich in dietary fiber to improve the digestive function of patients with multiple comorbidities.

Third-party fecal microbiota transplantation for high-risk treatment-naïve acute GVHD of the lower GI tract

AbstractDisruption of the intestinal microbiome is observed with acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) of the lower gastrointestinal (LGI) tract, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has successfully cured steroid-refractory cases. In this open-label, single-arm, pilot study, third-party, single-donor FMT was administered in combination with systemic corticosteroids to participants with high-risk acute LGI GVHD, with a focus on treatment-naïve cases. Participants were scheduled to receive 1 induction dose (15 capsules per day for 2 consecutive days), followed by 3 weekly maintenance doses, consisting of 15 capsules per dose. The primary end point of the study was feasibility, which would be achieved if ≥80% of participants able to swallow ≥40 of the 75 scheduled capsules. Ten participants (9 treatment-naïve; 1 steroid-refractory) were enrolled and treated. The study met the primary end point, with 9 of 10 participants completing all eligible doses. Organ-specific LGI complete response rate at day 28 was 70%. Initial clinical response was observed within 1 week for all responders, and clinical responses were durable without recurrent LGI GVHD in complete responders. Exploratory analyses suggest that alpha diversity increased after FMT. Although recipient microbiome composition never achieved a high degree of donor similarity, expansion of donor-derived species and increases in tryptophan metabolites and short-chain fatty acids were observed within the first 7 days after FMT. Investigation into the use of microbiome-targeted interventions earlier in the treatment paradigm for acute LGI GVHD is warranted. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04139577.

Rebamipide Prevents the Hemoglobin Drop Related to Mucosal-Damaging Agents at a Level Comparable to Proton Pump Inhibitors.

: The effect of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract is uncertain, with potential to worsen damage. This study aimed to find the best method for protecting the entire GI tract from mucosal damage. : A retrospective cohort study at Samsung Medical Center (2002-2019) included 195,817 patients prescribed GI mucosa-damaging agents. The primary goal was to assess the effectiveness of GI protective agents in preventing significant hemoglobin drops (>2 g/dL), indicating overall GI mucosal damage. Self-controlled case series and landmark analysis were used to address biases in real-world data. : The incidence rate ratios for rebamipide, PPI, and histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) were 0.34, 0.33, and 0.52, respectively. Rebamipide showed a significantly lower incidence rate than H2RA and was comparable to PPIs. Landmark analysis revealed significant reductions in hemoglobin drop risk with rebamipide and H2RA, but not with PPI. : Rebamipide, like PPIs, was highly effective in preventing blood hemoglobin level decreases, as shown in real-world data. Rebamipide could be a comprehensive strategy for protecting the entire GI tract, especially when considering PPIs' potential side effects on the lower GI tract.

Current status and clinical outcome of endoscopic hemostatic powder in gastrointestinal bleeding: a retrospective multicenter study.

Few multicenter studies have investigated the efficacy of hemostatic powders in gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. We aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of hemostatic powder therapy and the independent factors affecting rebleeding rates. We retrospectively recruited patients who underwent a new hemostatic adhesive powder (UI-EWD; Next-Biomedical) treatment for upper and lower GI bleeding between January 1, 2020 and March 1, 2023. We collected patients' medical records and bleeding lesions. The primary outcomes were clinical and technical success rates, and the secondary outcomes were early, delayed, and refractory bleeding, mortality, and factors affecting early rebleeding rates. This study enrolled 135 patients (age: 67.7±13.6 years, male: 74.1%) from five hospitals. Indications for UI-EWD were peptic ulcers (51.1%), post-procedure-related bleeding (23.0%), and tumor bleeding (19.3%). The clinical and technical success rates were both 97%. The early, delayed, and refractory rebleeding rates were 19.3%, 11.1%, and 12.8%, respectively. Initially elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels (p=0.014) and Forrest classification IA or IB compared with IIA or IIB (p=0.036) were factors affecting early rebleeding. UI-EWD showed high clinical and technical success rates; however, rebleeding after UI-EWD therapy in patients with initially high BUN levels and active bleeding, according to the Forrest classification, should be considered.

Nutritional Interventions in Gestational Diabetes: A Nursing Perspective in Obstetrics

The study assessed the effectiveness of individualized nutritional counseling conducted by nurses in managing gestational diabetes mellitus. The intervention emphasized self-management and dietary adherence by organizing balanced meals, selecting foods with low glycemic index, and counting carbohydrates. This cross-sectional study identified 140 pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus via convenient sampling. The research employed a systematic approach through structured questionnaires for data collection and hemoglobin A1c tests to assess glycemic regulation. The findings revealed substantial enhancements in glycemic control, as evidenced by the noteworthy reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels from 5.9% before the intervention to 5.4% following it (P &lt; 0.05). In addition to the decreased glycemic index of consumer foods, dietary modifications increased fiber consumption and decreased carbohydrate intake (P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, the participants demonstrated a substantial adherence to the nutritional plan (84.7%) and conveyed contentment with the counseling they received (4.3 on a five-point scale). The research documented favorable changes in levels of physical activity and enhancements in health outcomes for both the mother and the newborn. These improvements encompassed reduced rates of preterm birth, fewer C-sections, and a decline in neonatal hypoglycemia instances.

Diet quality and blood pressure among pregnant women with overweight or obesity: A secondary analysis of two randomized controlled trials.

Maternal obesity is a significant risk factor for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. High diet quality may protect against this, yet data regarding the relationship between diet quality and blood pressure among pregnant women with raised body mass index (BMI) is limited. This is a secondary analysis (n = 543) of women with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 from two randomized controlled trials; PEARS (Pregnancy Exercise and nutrition Research Study with smartphone application support) and ROLO (Randomized cOntrol trial of LOw glycemic index diet to prevent macrosomia in euglycemic women). Blood pressure was measured at 10-18 weeks and 28 weeks of pregnancy. Mean arterial pressure was calculated as (diastolic blood pressure [systolic blood pressure diastolic blood pressure]). Diet quality was assessed using 3-day food diaries, and Alternative Healthy Eating Index for Pregnancy (AHEI-P) scores were generated, quantifying alignment of food intakes with dietary guidelines in first and early third trimesters. The cohort was divided based on AHEI-P tertiles to explore differences at an alpha significance value of <0.05. The mean age of the group was 32.21 ± 4.39 years with a median body mass index (BMI) of 28.13 (IQR 3.47) kg/m2. Mean arterial pressures in the first and third trimesters were 81.07 ± 9.00 mmHg and 82.33 ± 7.53 mmHg, respectively. Rates of elevated blood pressure (≥120/80 mmHg) were 22.33% in trimester 1 and 24.48% in early trimester 3. Mean AHEI-P scores in trimester 1 and early trimester 3 were 53.90 ± 10.43 and 54.05 ± 10.76, respectively. There was no correlation between AHEI-P score and blood pressure and no differences in blood pressure between AHEI-P tertiles at either timepoint (all P-values <0.05). A higher proportion of those with elevated early third trimester blood pressure had a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2 compared with those with normal blood pressure (40.31% vs 28.64%, P = 0.016). While diet remains an important factor in maternal health and wellbeing, we did not find a relationship between diet quality as measured by AHEI-P and blood pressure among pregnant women with BMI ≥25 kg/m2. High BMI remains a risk factor for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Effect of annealing treatment on physicochemical properties, rheology and in vitro digestion of potato starch-galactomannan complexes

The effect of annealing treatment on the physicochemical properties, flow behavior, and especially in vitro digestibility of potato starch-galactomannan (locust bean gum, tara gum, guar gum, and fenugreek gum) complexes was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and particle size analysis showed that the galactomannan (GTM) increased the size of potato starch (PS) and adhesions appeared in the starch-galactomannan complexes (PS-GTM). After annealing treatment (ANN), more adhesions appeared in the PS-GTM. However, ANN had little effect on the size of the PS and PS-GTM. GTM decreased the ΔH of the PS, and the short-range ordering (R 1047/1022), To, Tc, and Tp of the PS-GTM increased after ANN. Moreover, the diffraction pattern of the PS still was B-type after the addition of GTM and ANN. However, the relative crystallinity of the PS-GTM was decreased after ANN. Rheology showed that all the complexes exhibited elastic gel structures (G' > G″), and the addition of GTM increased the apparent viscosity, gel-like properties, and modulus of the PS. In vitro digestion showed that the addition of GTM increased the resistant starch (RS) content in the PS, and the RS was positively correlated with the ratio of mannose and galactose under the effect of ANN, with the RS content of the Tara gum complexes increasing from 69.73% to 89.42%. This study provides valid information for the development of healthy, low GI functional foods.

Cooking quality of rice is a potential predictor to identify low starch digestibility rice

SummarySurge in diabetes cases and its expensive management cost are major constraints leading to reduced rice consumption. Therefore, screening of low glycaemic index (GI) rice along with better cooking quality is a cost‐effective approach for diabetes management. In 103 diverse rice germplasms analysed for starch digestibility parameters, GI was observed between 52.72 (EC 966576) and 73.46 (IC 200559), whereas resistant starch (RS) and amylose content (AC) were found in the range of 0.31–2.26% and 3.52–22.31%, respectively. On the other hand, water uptake (WU), gel consistency (GC) and alkali spreading value (ASV) were estimated to check possible linkage between these cooking quality parameters and starch digestibility. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.84, r = 0.95) was found between GI and ASV, WU. However, GC showed a significant negative correlation (r = −0.90) with GI. These cooking quality parameters can be used as an alternative approach to identify low‐starch digestibility rice.

High-protein, low glycemic index snack from optimized blend of three wholegrains exhibits nutraceutical quality and elicits low glycemic response in diabetic human subjects

Snack products are evolving as new carriers of functional ingredients with nutritional and health-promoting benefits. A blend of whole grains is increasingly being utilized to harness the functional potential of the grain mix. Amaranth, acha, and pearl millet grains flours were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM), to obtain optimum blends (90:5:5 and 47.98:26.68:25.34) with high protein content and low glycemic index. Snack bar products from the blends were labelled MBY and MBZ. A total of 40 diabetic and 10 non-diabetic subjects were recruited. Of the diabetic, about 42% were overweight while 40% were obese, the non-diabetic had normal weights. Each was allowed to consume snacks containing the equivalent of 50 g of carbohydrates. Finger prick was employed to evaluate the postprandial glucose response of snack products while venous blood was evaluated for antioxidant enzymes, carbohydrate-hydrolyzing activities, and insulin using standard methods. Consumption of the multigrain snacks elicited a stable postprandial response (133–141 mg/dL) with 16 and 24% postprandial decline. In addition, snacks had low to intermediate glycemic index (52 and 56) in diabetic and low glycemic index (43 and 45) in non-diabetics; likewise reduced α-amylase/α-glucosidase activities compared to control snacks. Similarly, glutathione level, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities in serum from subjects that consumed multigrain snacks were upregulated compared to control and market sample groups. Moreso, snack products promoted a reduction in serum insulin levels in diabetic subjects (45 and 17% for MBY and MBZ respectively). Following the nutraceutical properties displayed by the formulated snack especially MBY, it can be promoted as a functional snack for the management of diabetes while solving the limited snack product choice of diabetes sufferers.Graphical