Almond Consumption Decreases Fasting and Post Prandial Blood Glucose Level in Female Type 2 Diabetes Subject

Problem statement: Population studies indicate that individuals who regularly consume nuts have reduced risk for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. The beneficial role of almonds has been established with respect to serum lipid profile however, its beneficial effects on glycemia is still to be established. Aim of the study was to investigate the response of almond feeding on fasting and post prandial blood glucose levels in T2DM female subjects. Approach: Twenty female T2DM subjects (40-60 years), having mean height 151.59±6.02 cm, body weight 59.3±10.57 kg, BMI of 25.73±4.10 kg m^-2 and fasting blood glucose levels between 130-180 mg dL^-1, free from any other disease, non smoker, teetotaler participated in this study. The subjects continued their free life style and in addition were given to eat 10 g of raw almonds per day as part of their first meal. Twelve hours fasting and 2 h post prandial blood was analyzed for glucose in blood collected after finger prick by a sterile disposable stellate on glucose analyzer (one touch basic plus complete diabetes monitoring system life scan, Inc. USA). Results: The mean fasting blood glucose levels gradually decreased from 152.7±19.44 (pre intervention) to 140.25±27.14, 137.15±25.82, 132.45±24.11 and 126.05±26.48 mg dL^-1 respectively after 1, 2, 3 and 4 week of almond feeding. Similarly post prandial glucose during 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 week were 216.5±51.08, 194.50±48.31, 194.55±63.78, 177.75±43.33 171.0±42.43 mg dL^-1 showing a decline. Conclusion: Almond feeding significantly (p<0.01) reduced both fasting and post prandial blood glucose levels in female T2DM subjects. The active principle and mechanism needs to be elucidated.