Impact of Dairy Products on Pre-diabetes and Diabetes Risk

Introduction to Dairy Products and Health

A recent study investigated the influence of various dairy products on the risk of pre-diabetes and diabetes among adults. Dairy products are a vital food category, providing essential nutrients for maintaining good health. Research has indicated that whey protein in dairy can enhance insulin utilization and potentially lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the probiotics found in fermented dairy items have been linked to improved digestive health. Despite these benefits, there is evidence suggesting a possible connection between dairy consumption and the onset of pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes.

Dairy Products and Pre-diabetes

An article published in the British Journal of Nutrition by Dutch researchers utilized data from the Lifelines Cohort Study to explore how different dairy product groups affect the development of pre-diabetes and diabetes. The study involved 112,086 participants who completed dietary assessments to evaluate their energy and nutrient intake. Researchers gathered further information through questionnaires and measurements, including education, physical activity, smoking habits, height, weight, cholesterol levels, and the presence of hypertension or high cholesterol. Notably, adults with diabetes were excluded from this analysis. Fasting blood sugar levels and glycated hemoglobin were measured as key outcomes.

Categories of Dairy Products Analyzed

The study examined several groups of dairy products, including:
– Skimmed dairy products (e.g., skimmed milk and yogurt)
– Semi-skimmed dairy products (e.g., semi-skimmed milk and low-fat cheese)
– Full-fat dairy products (e.g., full-fat milk, yogurt, regular cheese, cream, milk-based ice cream, and chocolate milk)
– Fermented dairy products (e.g., curd cheese/quark and buttermilk)
– Non-fermented dairy products (e.g., custard and porridge)

Findings on Full-fat Dairy Products and Diabetes Risk

The findings indicated that participants who consumed skimmed, fermented dairy products, buttermilk, and low-fat cheese exhibited lower rates of pre-diabetes compared to those who included more full-fat and non-fermented dairy items in their diets. While the results concerning type 2 diabetes were less conclusive, there was a noted association between full-fat and non-fermented dairy products and a higher incidence of type 2 diabetes. The researchers acknowledged that it was challenging to ascertain whether the observed results were exclusively due to dairy consumption or influenced by other lifestyle factors, such as poor dietary choices.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Dairy products are a staple in many people’s diets, appearing in various meals from breakfast cereals to desserts. This study underscores the importance of opting for lower-fat dairy options when possible, alongside making other healthy dietary choices.

Author Information

Written by Anuolu Bank-Oni, PharmD, CDE, BCGP

Reference

Brouwer-Brolsma, E M, et al. (2018). Dairy Product Consumption Is Associated with Pre-Diabetes and Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes in the Lifelines Cohort Study. British Journal of Nutrition 119(4):442-455