Scientific Study

This randomized crossover study assessed the acute effects of almonds on postprandial glycemic, hormonal and appetite responses in a sample of seven men with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Participants completed two experimental visits during which a control (white bread, butter, cheese) and a test (white bread, almonds) meal were ingested. Energy, available carbohydrate, total lipid, and protein contents were the same in both meals. Blood samples were collected in fasting state as well as 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 240 minutes postprandially for quantifying blood glucose, as well as insulin and GLP-1 serum concentrations. Subjective appetite sensations were assessed using visual analog scales at the same time points. Within this sample of participants, the test meal was found to be associated with lower postprandial glycemia and insulinemia, higher GLP-1 serum concentrations, decreased hunger and desire to eat, and increased fullness. The test meal was also associated with an increased estimated glucose metabolic clearance rate, indicating higher postprandial insulin sensitivity. Overall, results suggest that almonds' macronutrient subtype profile could have a beneficial impact on postprandial glycemic, hormonal and appetite responses in men with T2D. Studies with a larger sample size are warranted to confirm these findings. NOVELTY BULLETS • A meal containing almonds (vs. isocaloric micronutrient-matched control) induced lower glycemic and insulinemic responses. • A meal containing almonds (vs. isocaloric micronutrient-matched control) induced higher postprandial GLP-1 serum concentrations. • A meal containing almonds (vs. isocaloric micronutrient-matched control) induced more favorable postprandial appetite responses.