Managing blood sugar levels may be more than just a matter of counting carbohydrates. Proteins and fats play a more significant role than expected in insulin production, according to a recent study. This discovery not only provides a new perspective on diabetes management but also holds the potential to inspire future research and pave the way for better glucose control for people with Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and prediabetes.
Researchers also examined a subset of pancreatic cells from donors with Type 2 diabetes. These cells responded poorly to glucose, but the cells’ insulin response to proteins unexpectedly remained intact. The researchers also conducted a comprehensive analysis of the gene expression of pancreatic islet cells to gather insights into the molecular and cellular characteristics that shape insulin production.
They suggest these findings could potentially inform future genetic testing to predict individual responses to different macronutrients. The findings could revolutionize diabetes management by guiding personalized nutrition plans, giving individuals more control over their health. “This really bolsters the case that protein-rich diets could have therapeutic benefits for patients with Type 2 diabetes and highlights the need for further research into protein-stimulated insulin secretion,” Kolic stated in the press release.
“There are limitations to take into account with this study when comparing specified cells to the whole individual,.