Diabetes is characterised by increased blood glucose levels arising from two main causes, leading to its classification as type 1 and type 2. Type 1 is an autoimmune disease, where the immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Type 2 is more common and it is where the cells become resistant to insulin. Both leads to dysregulation of glucose metabolism (1).
When in conversation about diabetes and diet, carbohydrates tend to take centre stage. But protein plays a significant role in our health and wellbeing. Our organs, muscles, nervous system, blood vessels and skeleton are all dependent on protein. Protein provides energy but it is not the body’s preferred energy source, instead the body uses protein primarily to repair body tissue.
In general, people with diabetes do not need any more or less protein that people without diabetes. However, increased protein may help blood sugar management because it could reduce and balance carbohydrate intake. Research has demonstrated for many years that consuming protein stimulates insulin secretion (2).
Whey-based or plant-based?
In particular, whey protein can stimulate beta cells to secrete insulin and suppress appetite, hence it is suggested as potentially managing type 2 diabetes (2). However, replacing sources of animal with plant protein has led to improvements in glycaemic control in individuals with diabetes (3).
The plant-based proteins, soy and pea, have been found to improve glycaemic control (4, 5). Specifically, pea protein has been found to lower blood glucose levels (6). Also, higher rice protein content may be beneficial in reducing glycaemic index (1).
When looking for the best protein powder concerning diabetes, you are looking for a protein powder that has no artificial flavourings, added sugar or sweeteners.
Sources:
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/10/9/1992
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4620107/
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/7/12/5509
- https://synapse.koreamed.org/articles/1031991
- https://ontariobeans.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Role-of-Pulses-in-Dietary-Management-of-Diabetes.pdf
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/EE7D8B806761B876F5792192BB6C7874/S0007114512000700a.pdf/the-effect-of-yellow-pea-protein-and-fibre-on-short-term-food-intake-subjective-appetite-and-glycaemic-response-in-healthy-young-men.pdf
