The Most Important Meal of the Day

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Effects of breakfast meal composition on second meal metabolic responses in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, by C.A. Clark and colleagues. Eur J Clin Nutr 60:1122–1129, 2006.

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

Changing the diet is an important part of managing weight and lowering the impact of diabetes and the problems it causes. Some research suggests that the amount and type of carbohydrates and fiber in a diet influence how much blood glucose levels rise after a meal. In general, foods that are digested slowly and gradually release glucose into the blood are healthier than foods that make blood glucose rise quickly.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

The researchers wanted to compare the difference between a meal that contains quickly digested carbohydrates and no fiber with a meal that contains fiber and slowly digested carbohydrates. They wanted to see how the meals affected blood glucose levels after eating, and whether breakfast has any effect after the lunchtime meal.

Who was studied?

The study included 45 adults with type 2 diabetes.

How was the study done?

Over a 3-week period, participants ate one of two breakfast meals. One meal had quickly digested carbohydrates and no dietary fiber, and the other had 6.6 grams of dietary fiber and slowly digested carbohydrates. Blood tests were done before and after eating to measure how well the body handled glucose and insulin.

What did the researchers find?

The meal with slowly digested carbohydrates and dietary fiber improved the body’s handling of glucose and insulin. There was no effect of either meal on blood glucose levels after lunch.

What were the limitations of the study?

The number of people in the study was small. Also, the way people ate under the controlled conditions of the study may not reflect how they eat in the real world.

What are the implications of the study?

A diet with fiber and slowly digested carbohydrates helps the body control glucose and insulin levels after a meal. But the healthful effect does not linger for the day’s other meals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Making the Exchange: Healthy Eating

Types of Carbohydrate

Diabetes Meal Planning Made Easy