Lignan-Rich Diet Linked to Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
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Reviewed & Translated by Dat Tien Nguyen, B.A, ScM.
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Posted on October 7th, 2024
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Previous research has demonstrated that grains, fruits, and vegetables high in polyphenolic lignans can support gut microbiota and lower the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. However, the impact of a lignan-rich diet on the risk of type 2 diabetes remains unclear. To address this, the National Institutes of Health sponsored a study to explore the connection between lignan consumption and type 2 diabetes risk.
The report analyzed data from three large population-based cohort studies, encompassing over 200,000 individuals between 1984 and 2020. Dietary lignan intake was assessed through an annual comprehensive food composition questionnaire, with consumption levels categorized into nine tiers. Lignan intake was further classified into four types based on their phytochemical makeup: matairesinol (found in cereals like rye), secoisolariciresinol (in flaxseed), pinoresinol (in olive oil), and lariciresinol (in sesame). During the observation period, approximately 20,000 cases of type 2 diabetes were diagnosed. The study found that high lignan consumption, excluding lariciresinol, was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, increased lignan intake was linked to lower HbA1c and C-reactive protein levels. Secoisolariciresinol appeared to offer the most significant clinical benefits, likely due to its higher bioavailability. Foods rich in secoisolariciresinol, such as flaxseeds, whole grains, and tea, also possess other properties that may aid in glycemic control.
The report analyzed data from three large population-based cohort studies, encompassing over 200,000 individuals between 1984 and 2020. Dietary lignan intake was assessed through an annual comprehensive food composition questionnaire, with consumption levels categorized into nine tiers. Lignan intake was further classified into four types based on their phytochemical makeup: matairesinol (found in cereals like rye), secoisolariciresinol (in flaxseed), pinoresinol (in olive oil), and lariciresinol (in sesame). During the observation period, approximately 20,000 cases of type 2 diabetes were diagnosed. The study found that high lignan consumption, excluding lariciresinol, was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, increased lignan intake was linked to lower HbA1c and C-reactive protein levels. Secoisolariciresinol appeared to offer the most significant clinical benefits, likely due to its higher bioavailability. Foods rich in secoisolariciresinol, such as flaxseeds, whole grains, and tea, also possess other properties that may aid in glycemic control.