Peas for Post-Meal Blood Sugar Control
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting Canadians (PHAC, 2011). Lifestyle modifications that include a diet high in fibre may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (CDA, 2013). In this context, the presence of fibre in carbohydrate rich foods has been widely recognized for its effect on post-prandial glucose response (PPGR). Peas are high in fibre and protein and show great potential as a functional food. A health claim for PPGR would increase market demand for peas, and help those who want to limit the rise in blood sugar after a meal choose products to meet their goals, but there are several gaps in the literature that need to be filled before a submission to Health Canada can be successful: 1) test foods in appropriate serving sizes; 2) test both the glucose and insulin response; 3) test varieties of peas that that currently available on the market; 4) test whole/split peas (not fractions or isolates); 5) compare peas to appropriate starchy reference food (rice or potato). The proposed study design will address all of these gaps in the current literature and take into consideration Health Canada's guidance document for health claims related to the reduction in PPGR, which sets out the criteria by which the validity of such claims will be assessed. Specific objectives 1. To determine the effect of 3 common market classes of peas on PPGR and insulin response in a cross-over, randomized, controlled clinical trial. 2. To assess the effect of 3 common market classes of peas on appetite-related sensations using visual analog scales. 3. To demonstrate whether the test and reference products were liked or disliked similarly by participants. 4. To assess any gastrointestinal side effects from eating the test products
Research Team
Heather J Blewett, PhD
Principal Investigator
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for generally healthy men and women aged 18-40, with a BMI of 18.5-34.5 kg/m2, and normal blood sugar levels (HbA1c <6.0%). Participants must be willing to give informed consent and follow the study's requirements.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants attend 6 clinic visits in a fasted state to test the effect of peas on post-prandial glucose response
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any gastrointestinal side effects and overall health after consuming test products
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Peas
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
St. Boniface Hospital
Lead Sponsor
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Collaborator