|
Flaxseeds (linseeds) may help to regulate blood glucose levels, especially when incorporated into certain foods which have a relatively high glycemic response, such as bread, according to new research.
Study author Sarah Booth notes that "It has been suggested that linseed (flaxseed) may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer due to its relatively high concentration of both alpha-linolenic acid and nonstart polysaccharides (Vaisey-Genser & Morris, 1997)."
- Researchers studied 15 healthy women in two single-meal study periods with a 7-day washout period in-between.
- During one period, the women ate scones containing flaxseeds and during the other they ate "white" bread (wheat).
- Finger prick blood samples were taken at 30, 60, 90 and 120 min postprandial (after eating) and blood glucose levels were determined.
Researchers found a significant difference between the incremental blood glucose values following consumption of the flaxseed scone in comparison with the white bread, with the flaxseed glycemic response being more gradual. The study authors notes that this more graduated response might help diabetics to avoid severe peaks and troughs in their blood glucose levels, which can be dangerous.
Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics, November, 2000; 13 : 363-371
| 