Fodmaps Boost Metformin's Effectiveness In Prediabetes Treatment
Researchers from the Faculty of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) have made a compelling discovery that could change how we approach prediabetes management. They found that including a moderate amount of fermentable carbohydrates, known as FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols), in one's diet significantly boosts the effectiveness of metformin, a widely-used medication aimed at preventing the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes.
This groundbreaking study, conducted in collaboration with CUHK’s School of Pharmacy and Monash University in Australia, has been published in the prestigious journal Nature Metabolism. Highlighting the potential for personalized nutrition to enhance drug treatment, the research underscores the benefits of integrating specific dietary choices with medical interventions.
Prediabetes affects a substantial portion of the population, with impaired insulin functioning being a major concern. Metformin is a common first-line treatment, but it often comes with unwanted gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and diarrhea, which can deter people from sticking with the medication. The CUHK study, led by Dr. Natural Chu Hoi-sing and supported by Dr. Elaine Chow Yee-kwan, explored how dietary changes might mitigate these issues.
The study involved 26 participants with prediabetes, aged 48 to 60, who were subjected to a double-blind, randomized trial. They alternated between a moderate-FODMAP and a low-FODMAP diet, both paired with metformin, to observe any changes in blood sugar and gut health. The results were telling: those on the moderate-FODMAP diet saw a 21% reduction in post-meal blood sugar levels, compared to a 12% reduction in the low-FODMAP group.
Moreover, the moderate-FODMAP diet significantly enhanced the secretion of a gut hormone called GLP-1, which plays a crucial role in insulin response and appetite regulation. This dietary approach also fostered a healthier gut microbiota, doubling the presence of beneficial bacteria like Butyricimonas virosa, which aids in blood sugar control and inflammation reduction.
Interestingly, the study identified a potential biomarker for predicting metformin intolerance. Higher levels of the bacteria Dorea formicigenerans were found in those who experienced negative side effects, suggesting new avenues for personalized treatment strategies.
Professor Juliana Chan Chung-ngor emphasized the importance of these findings, noting that integrating precise dietary management with traditional medical care could be instrumental in tackling the global diabetes challenge. As research continues, the hope is to refine these strategies to benefit more individuals at risk of diabetes.