Effects of High-Protein Diets- Type 2 Diabetes

Review: Effects of High-Protein Diets on Glycemic Control, Insulin Resistance, and Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetes

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31466731/

A systematic review and meta-analysis (PMID: 31466731) explored how high-protein diets (HPDs) affect glycemic control, insulin resistance, and blood pressure in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Here's a breakdown of the key findings:

Methodology

The review included nine randomized controlled trials with 418 participants.
Protein intake in intervention groups ranged from 25–32% of total energy, compared to 15–20% in control groups.
Study durations varied from 4 to 24 weeks, with a median of 12 weeks.
Outcomes analyzed included fasting glucose, HbA1c (a marker of long-term blood glucose), and blood pressure.

Key Results

Glycemic Control:

High-protein diets significantly reduced HbA1c levels compared to standard-protein diets. This suggests improved long-term glycemic management.
Fasting blood glucose levels showed modest reductions, though the results varied between studies.

Insulin Resistance:

Improvements in insulin sensitivity were observed, particularly with diets rich in animal-derived protein sources. This was likely influenced by the role of branched-chain amino acids (e.g., leucine) in enhancing glucose metabolism.

Blood Pressure:

Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were slightly reduced on high-protein diets, though the effects were not as pronounced as those on glycemic parameters.

Heterogeneity and Limitations

Significant variability in study designs and protein sources made direct comparisons challenging.
Most trials were short-term, leaving questions about sustainability and long-term safety unanswered.

Strengths of High-Protein Diets

They offer a potential non-pharmacological strategy to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.
May also promote satiety, aiding weight management, which is critical for diabetes care.

Concerns and Considerations

Long-term adherence to HPDs can be difficult.
Potential risks include impacts on kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, and changes in lipid profiles depending on protein sources.

Practical Takeaways

High-protein diets can be an effective short-term intervention for glycemic control and mild blood pressure improvements in type 2 diabetes. However, individual factors like kidney function, dietary preferences, and long-term adherence must be considered. Further research is needed to clarify their role in comprehensive diabetes management.

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