Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

Study of In Vivo Glucose Metabolism in High-fat Diet-fed Mice Using Oral Glucose Tolerance Test OGTT and Insulin Tolerance Test ITT
Published on: January 7, 2018
Preferred meal patterns in non-insulin-dependent diabetes
M L Wahlqvist1, R W Simpson, C S Lo
1Department of Medicine, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
For individuals with non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM), a main evening meal pattern leads to better blood sugar control compared to an even distribution of meals. This dietary approach may improve glycemic response and insulin sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Metabolism and Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
- Diabetes Management
Background:
- Current dietary guidelines for non-insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM) regarding meal timing and energy distribution lack robust evidence.
- Understanding optimal macronutrient distribution throughout the day is crucial for managing NIDDM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the glycemic and insulin responses to an even energy distribution versus a main evening meal pattern in individuals with NIDDM.
- To investigate the impact of meal timing on glycemic control in NIDDM patients.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 11 subjects with NIDDM compared two dietary patterns: an even distribution of energy intake and a main evening meal.
- Macronutrient composition (fat 29%, protein 20%, carbohydrate 51%) remained consistent across both meal patterns.
- Glycemic and insulin responses were monitored and compared between the two meal patterns.
Main Results:
- An even energy and carbohydrate spread resulted in a significantly better peak glycemic response in the evening compared to the morning (P<0.01).
- A main evening meal pattern demonstrated a lower overall glycemic response compared to an even meal distribution (P<0.01).
- While overall insulin response did not differ significantly, insulin sensitivity appeared improved in the evening with a main evening meal.
Conclusions:
- A main evening meal pattern may be more beneficial for glycemic control in non-insulin-dependent diabetes compared to an even distribution of energy and carbohydrate intake.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and establish evidence-based dietary recommendations for NIDDM.
Related Concept Videos
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
Type II Diabetes Mellitus III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis
Type I Diabetes III: Clinical Manifestations
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery
Short-acting insulins are divided into...
Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications

