Abstract
Background and Objectives: There is a need to re assess the value of low-GI food and its specific components. The effect of one of them, namely low-glycemic-index sugar, is unclear, as its impact is usually confounded when reported in the literature. This study attempts to breach this gap, shedding light on its effect in type 2 diabetic patients and evaluate if it could be considered as part of a dietary plan.Subjects and Methods: The blood sugar level of twenty (20) type 2 diabetics was monitored using a Continuous Glucose Monitoring system during two phases; firstly, an initial period of 5 days, whereby all the included patients were taking their usual dietary meals. Subjects were then randomized into two groups of equal size before embarking on a second phase; 10 subjects were instructed to eat prepared, portioned and delivered meals, the difference for the second group being that low-GI sugar was used for the preparation. Results: Compared to baseline (day 1), blood sugar dropped by 18% for the group with low-GI sugar and 13% for those who consumed sugar with a normal-GI. The variation in sugar levels was also more contained in the interventional group. A by-product of the study design shows that constant glucose monitoring could raise awareness, and may foster reduction in blood sugar levels. Portioned food was capable of reducing blood sugar levels, with elevated levels of compliance just after start. Conclusions: Even though the ultimate aim is to reduce sugar consumption by diabetic patients, the intake of a low-GI sugar seems to be less harmful than normal sugar. Compared to using normal sugar for the preparation of portioned foods, the use of a low-GI sugar is encouraged as part of a wider plan for the management of diabetic patients.
Low-Glycemic-Index Sugar in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study