Diabetes study investigates whey to control blood glucose

Tuesday, 15 July 2014

People with type 2 diabetes are being sought for a new study at the University of Adelaide looking at a possible method to help control blood glucose levels.

The University's Diabetes Research Group is developing a new strategy of giving people with type 2 diabetes a small nutrient drink prior to a meal.

The researchers are hoping this pre-meal drink - known as a "preload" - could help to modulate gut function and improve blood glucose control.

The drink is in the form of a shake consisting mainly of whey protein.

About a third of Australians are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes within their lifetime.

Speaking during National Diabetes Week (13-19 July), study leader Associate Professor Chris Rayner says new strategies are needed to assist people with type 2 diabetes.

"Achieving good control of blood glucose, in particular after meals, can lower the risk of complications, including eye, kidney, nerve and heart disease," Associate Professor Rayner says.

"The gut coordinates the transit, digestion and absorption of nutrients, and secretes biologically active hormones in response to food, thereby playing an essential role in controlling blood glucose after meals.

"This new study will help our group to develop a better understanding of how people with diabetes are responding to whey protein, and whether this could be a useful treatment approach in the long term," he says.

South Australian volunteers with type 2 diabetes are now being sought to participate in a 12-week trial.

To find out more or to take part in the study, members of the public should call: 08 8222 5039.

The Diabetes Research Group is part of the University's Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Nutritional Science into Good Health, led by Professor Michael Horowitz.

This study and the Centre of Research Excellence are supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

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