The Relationship between Protein Intake and Source on Factors Associated with Glycemic Control in Individuals with...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science
• Cardiovascular Health

Background:

• Type 2 diabetes (T2D) significantly increases cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, contributing to morbidity and mortality.
• Dietary protein intake is a critical factor in metabolic health and glycemic control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between protein consumption levels and sources with glycemic control and cardiovascular health indicators.
• To evaluate the impact of varying protein intake on body composition and metabolic parameters in individuals with prediabetes and T2D.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 62 overweight/obese participants (aged 45-75) with prediabetes or T2D.
• Participants were stratified into three groups based on protein intake: below (<0.8 g/kg bw), meeting (≥0.8 to <1.0 g/kg bw), and above (≥1.0 g/kg bw) recommended levels.
• Analysis included body mass, BMI, circumferences, lean/fat mass, insulin secretion, triglycerides, and cholesterol profiles.

Main Results:

• Lower protein intake (<0.8 g/kg bw) was associated with higher body mass, BMI, hip/waist circumference, lean mass, and fat mass.
• Higher animal protein intake correlated with increased insulin secretion and lower triglycerides (TG).
• Meeting recommended protein intake showed higher total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol compared to other groups.

Conclusions:

• High protein consumption is linked to reduced BMI, HC, WC, and FM, improving insulin resistance without adverse effects on lipid profiles.
• Increased animal protein intake may enhance beta-cell function and lower plasma TG.
• Optimizing protein intake is a potential strategy for managing metabolic and cardiovascular health in T2D populations.