Isomaltulose product holds potential for glucose regulation, study finds

15 Mar 2018 --- A study has identified the significance of Beneo's palatinose (Isomaltulose) – a "smart-sugar" made up of glucose and fructose – in achieving steady blood sugar levels when used as part of a low-glycemic diet. The glycemic index concept allows a ranking of carbohydrate-rich foods concerning their blood glucose raising potential. The study, by Henry et al., contributes to understandings of how a low-glycemic diet can contribute to improved blood glucose regulation, which opens up opportunities for people with diabetes. 

The study continuously monitored the blood sugar levels of twenty men on two different dietary plans: low and high glycaemic. In addition, the participants’ energy expenditure and metabolism were measured. Overall, the trials covered a period of 42 hours to represent a typical day-to-day situation.

The glycemic load of the participants’ meals was modulated by adding sucrose for the high glycemic group and Beneo’s Palatinose for the low glycemic group. Two metabolic parameters – glycemic response and substrate oxidation – were measured, with the former using continuous glucose monitoring (recorded every five minutes for 42 hours) and the latter using whole-body calorimetry.

The study found the low glycemic diet to have strong, positive effects. The process of generating energy within the cells from the food consumed was quicker. This process promotes fat burning which ultimately encourages weight loss. Secondly, reduced variability in blood sugar levels was prominent. 

Significantly, a large number of consumers actively want to control their blood sugar levels. Not only are a vast number of consumers suffering from diabetes, but diabetics and pre-diabetics are susceptible to hyperglycemia. These are prolonged periods when levels of sugar in the blood are too high. If left untreated it can lead to a number of serious health complications.

“The study by Henry et al. really shows how Palatinose can contribute to a healthier diet when used as part of a low glycaemic diet. The unique combination of measuring continuous blood glucose response, as well as energy provision, reflects a real-life scenario, rather than a snapshot situation,” says Anke Sentko, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs & Nutrition Communication at Beneo.

“Given high blood sugar levels are a risk factor in the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus, these findings demonstrate how Palatinose opens up opportunities for consumer products that not only promote blood sugar management but weight management as well,” she adds.

Studies have shown the how certain foods, such as pulses, can regulate metabolic parameters, such as blood lipids. NutritionInsight has previously covered other companies and their forays into blood sugar control, through food products that are readily ingested in day-to-day life.