Study highlights Beneo’s sustained release isomaltulose in sleep-improving bedtime drink

A new randomized controlled trial finds that Beneo’s slow and sustained release of carbohydrate Palatinose (isomaltulose) improves aspects of sleep when consumed in a bedtime drink.

By leading to more balanced blood glucose levels, particularly during the first half of the night, Palatinose may support a longer deep sleep phase and thus restful sleep. The new research backs Palatinose’s range of benefits beyond metabolic health.

The results showed that the participants who consumed the bedtime drink containing Palatinose had a slower and more sustained release of glucose into their blood, preventing dips in blood sugar levels — particularly during the first half of the night.

Additionally, those who consumed the drink with Palatinose during the second intervention had an extended deep sleep phase by an average of 22 minutes. This is because more balanced blood glucose levels promote deeper sleep and fewer periods of wakefulness, highlights Beneo.

The study authors observed better memory for neutral story content when participants consumed Palatinose as the second intervention.

“These findings are significant, as deep or slow-wave sleep is important for physical recovery and cognitive health. By supporting balanced blood sugar levels and prolonging the deep sleep phase, Palatinose may improve restful sleep and a person’s overall well-being,” says Dr. Stephan Theis, head of Nutrition Science and Communication at Beneo.

“Its ability to sustain blood sugar levels overnight may also have far-reaching implications for dietary interventions, targeting sleep disorders and cognitive decline.”

Comparing isomaltulose to glucose

The study was designed to explore the effect of Palatinose, compared to glucose, on a person’s sleep. Using a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over design, the study was undertaken with 20 healthy young men, with a mean age of 24 years.

The participants’ blood glucose was monitored continuously, and their sleep characteristic metrics were monitored in a laboratory setting using polysomnography and actigraphy.

One week after an acclimatization night in the laboratory setting, half of the men were given 50 g of isomaltulose, while the other half received 50 g of glucose, dissolved in a 300 ml drink of water.

A further week later, the participants who had had a glucose drink received one with Palatinose and vice versa. The format for all three visits to the laboratory was: all participants ate a standardized evening meal and later viewed a series of neutral, positive, and negative stories.

The drinks were consumed 15 minutes before bedtime, at approximately 11 pm. In the morning, story recall was tested.

Slow absorption thanks to complex structure

Beneo’s Palatinose is a naturally sourced, smart carbohydrate that provides full carbohydrate energy (4 kcal/g) in a more balanced way, thanks to its low glycemic profile.

As a sugar, Palatinose has the physiology of a complex carbohydrate though, as it is slowly absorbed. Palatinose is produced by the enzymatic rearrangement of the glycosidic bond between glucose and fructose in sucrose. As a result, it has slow-release properties and is non-cariogenic. It is also 100% vegan, kosher, halal, and non-GMO.

Various studies worldwide have shown the prevalence of insomnia in 10–30% of the population, some even as high as 50–60%. As poor sleep quality is known to be a risk factor for obesity, impaired glucose metabolism, and dementia, insomnia is a major public health issue.

“With this in mind, the findings of Gaylor et al. are of key importance, as they demonstrate that the right choice of carbohydrate can positively impact a person’s sleep and mental well-being,” states Beneo.

Exploring more of the sleep health space, a recent Nutrition Insight Special Report featured a host of new product innovation insights from key suppliers Gencor, Nektium, Lubrizol Life Science, Prinova, SuanNutra, Trinutra, and Karallief. The experts say there is mounting interest in multifunctional formulations that combine sleep and relaxation aids with other wellness benefits, such as immune support and hormonal balance.