3 effective diets for improving glycemic control

3 effective diets for improving glycemic control

With the surge in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, dietary strategies are no longer just general lifestyle advice — they’ve become powerful therapeutic tools.

 

But which one should you recommend in clinical practice?

One of the most reliable ways to assess a diet’s effectiveness is by tracking changes in HbA1c, a key marker of long-term glycemic control.

HbA1c reflects average blood glucose over the past 2 to 3 months. The higher the level, the greater the risk of complications such as retinopathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular disease.

Comparison of the Most Studied Diets

🔹 Low-Carb Diet

  • Definition: moderate carbohydrate restriction (<130 g/day)
  • Effect on HbA1c: −0.28% to −0.44%
  • Notes: Effective in the short term, but benefits tend to fade without long-term support.

 

🔹 Ketogenic Diet

  • Definition: very low in carbohydrates (<50 g/day), high in fats
  • Effect on HbA1c: −0.38% to −1.1%
  • Notes: Rapid and significant impact, but requires close medical supervision. Not always suitable for long-term use

 

🔹 Mediterranean Diet

  • Definition: high in vegetables, fruits, olive oil, legumes, and fish
  • Effect on HbA1c: −0.3% to −0.5%
  • Notes: An excellent balance of effectiveness, adherence, and cardiovascular protection.

 

In clinical practice:

The best diet is the one a patient can realistically maintain over time, with sustained improvements in glycemic control and quality of life.

Key success factors:

  • Tailor dietary advice to the patient’s age, treatment plan, BMI, comorbidities, and likelihood of adherence
  • Provide ongoing support and education
  • Monitor regularly: HbA1c, weight, abdominal circumference, lipids, nutritional status

Sources :

Ajala O, English P, Pinkney J. Systematic review and meta-analysis of different dietary approaches to the management of type 2 diabetes. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Mar;97(3):505-16. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.112.042457.

Régimes méditerranéens et prévention du diabète : à l’heure des preuves https://hal.science/hal-03493556/document

Esposito K, Maiorino MI, Ciotola M, Di Palo C, Scognamiglio P, Gicchino M, Petrizzo M, Saccomanno F, Beneduce F, Ceriello A, Giugliano D. Effects of a Mediterranean-style diet on the need for antihyperglycemic drug therapy in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2009 Sep 1;151(5):306-14. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-151-5-200909010-00004.

Meng Y, Bai H, Wang S, Li Z, Wang Q, Chen L. Efficacy of low carbohydrate diet for type 2 diabetes mellitus management: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2017 Sep;131:124-131. doi: 10.1016/j.diabres.2017.07.006.

Snorgaard O, Poulsen GM, Andersen HK, Astrup A. Systematic review and meta-analysis of dietary carbohydrate restriction in patients with type 2 diabetes. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care. 2017 Feb 23;5(1):e000354. doi: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2016-000354.

Huntriss R, Campbell M, Bedwell C. The interpretation and effect of a low-carbohydrate diet in the management of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2018 Mar;72(3):311-325. doi: 10.1038/s41430-017-0019-4.

Effect of the Ketogenic Diet on the Prophylaxis and Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: A Review of the Meta-Analyses and Clinical Trials. Dyńka D, Kowalcze K, Ambrozkiewicz F, Paziewska A. Nutrients. 2023 Jan 18;15(3):500. doi: 10.3390/nu15030500.

Efficacy of a High-Protein Diet to Lower Glycemic Levels in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review. Flores-Hernández MN, Martínez-Coria H, López-Valdés HE, Arteaga-Silva M, Arrieta-Cruz I, Gutiérrez-Juárez R. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Oct 11;25(20):10959. doi: 10.3390/ijms252010959.

Comparison of the Effect of Intermittent Fasting with Mediterranean Diet on Glycemic, Lipid, and Anthropometric Indices in Type 2 Diabetes: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Dehghani S, Karimi P, Tarei NN, Masoumvand M, Manesh MAN, Ramezani E, Askari VR. Curr Hypertens Rev. 2025 Apr 11. doi: 10.2174/0115734021351456250326051146. 

Anti-glycaemic effect of the Chinese modified DASH diet combined with 23% low-sodium salt in patients with hypertension and type 2 diabetes: a clinical trial. An J, Liu G, Luo W, Zhou X, Mei Y, Zhang Z, Zhao L, Huang Y, Mu L. Diabetol Metab Syndr. 2025 Feb 12;17(1):55. doi: 10.1186/s13098-025-01618-7.

Investigating the Effectiveness of Very Low-Calorie Diets and Low-Fat Vegan Diets on Weight and Glycemic Markers in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Kashyap A, Mackay A, Carter B, Fyfe CL, Johnstone AM, Myint PK. Nutrients. 2022 Nov 17;14(22):4870. doi: 10.3390/nu14224870.

The Effect of Dietary Glycaemic Index on Glycaemia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Ojo O, et al. Nutrients. 2018. PMID: 29562676 Free PMC article. Review.

Intermittent v. continuous energy restriction: differential effects on postprandial glucose and lipid metabolism following matched weight loss in overweight/obese participants. Antoni R, Johnston KL, Collins AL, Robertson MD. Br J Nutr. 2018 Mar;119(5):507-516. doi: 10.1017/S0007114517003890.

Intermittent fasting and health: Does timing matter? Dote-Montero M, Clavero-Jimeno A, Labayen I, Ruiz JR. Clin Transl Med. 2025 May;15(5):e70325. doi: 10.1002/ctm2.70325.

Sutton EF, Beyl R, Early KS, Cefalu WT, Ravussin E, Peterson CM. Early Time-Restricted Feeding Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Blood Pressure, and Oxidative Stress Even without Weight Loss in Men with Prediabetes. Cell Metab. 2018 Jun 5;27(6):1212-1221.e3. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2018.04.010.

What if treatment would be more integrative, earlier and more human for osteoarthritis?

What if treatment would be more integrative, earlier and more human for osteoarthritis?

What if treatment would be more integrative, earlier and more human?

By Marc Dellière

All too often regarded as an age-related inevitability, osteoarthritis now affects more than 10 million French people. Yet there are many complementary, scientifically-validated strategies available to improve patients’ quality of life.

Articular cartilage is an incredibly resistant tissue, capable of withstanding loads far greater than our body weight. The problem is that this tissue, however efficient, is very difficult to repair. Devoid of blood vessels, it depends on a slow process of nutrient diffusion to survive. And since chondrocytes live in an oxygen-poor environment, their ability to regenerate the matrix is limited.

Hence the importance of protecting this joint capital from the very first signs.

Every kilo lost relieves 4 to 6 kilos of pressure on the hips or knees… a good reason to promote appropriate physical activity and a balanced diet.

What if, in the face of osteoarthritis, we dared to take a more comprehensive, more humane and earlier approach?

Get moving.

Yoga, walking, cycling and tai chi all help to lighten joints, activate muscles and limit degeneration.

Manage pain and stress.

Hypnosis, meditation, sophrology and cardiac coherence can really improve symptom management.

 

Eat well.

The plate is a well-known Hippocratic therapy. Fewer fast sugars, more antioxidant-rich foods and a plant-based diet similar to the Mediterranean diet for less inflammation.

 

Good referral.

Acupuncture, derived from traditional Chinese medicine, is becoming an increasingly popular treatment option for osteoarthritis patients. Its effectiveness is neither magic nor a simple placebo effect. Several studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing chronic pain, improving joint mobility and limiting the use of analgesics. By acting on nerve pathways and inflammation mediators, acupuncture offers a valuable complementary approach.

 

Supplement well.

  • Turmeric (curcumin): well-documented anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Boswellia serrata: supports joint flexibility.
  • Harpagophytum: reduces perceived pain.
  • Omega-3: modulation of chronic inflammation.
  • Glucosamine & chondroitin: slow cartilage wear and improve joint comfort in certain patients, notably in cases of mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.
  • Type II collagen and hyaluronic acid: structural support for cartilage, promoting suppleness and elasticity.

 

Far from pitting conventional treatments against natural approaches, integrative medicine invites us to combine them intelligently. As healthcare professionals, we have a key role to play in this dynamic, offering personalized, evidence-based support… with an emphasis on prevention.

 

Sources :

Osteoarthritis: Insights into Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, Therapeutic Avenues, and the Potential of Natural Extracts. Coppola C, Greco M, Munir A, Musarò D, Quarta S, Massaro M, Lionetto MG, Maffia M. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2024 Apr 29;46(5):4063-4105. doi: 10.3390/cimb46050251.

Comparative efficacy of mind-body exercise for pain, function, quality of life in knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.Gao K, Tao J, Liang G, Gong C, Wang L, Wang Y.J Orthop Surg Res. 2025 Apr 17;20(1):384. doi: 10.1186/s13018-025-05682-7.

Mind-body exercises for osteoarthritis: an overview of systematic reviews including 32 meta-analyses.de-la-Casa-Almeida M, Villar-Alises O, Rodríguez Sánchez-Laulhé P, Martinez-Calderon J, Matias-Soto J.Disabil Rehabil. 2024 May;46(9):1699-1707. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2203951.

Short-term manual acupuncture decreased markers of systemic inflammation and altered articular cartilage transcripts in the Dunkin-Hartley model of osteoarthritis. Spittler AP, Bukovec KE, Afzali MF, Leavell SE, Bork SB, Seebart CA, Santangelo KS, Story MR. Am J Vet Res. 2025 Feb 7;86(4):ajvr.24.11.0341. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.24.11.0341. 

Bioactive Compounds in Osteoarthritis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Roles. Maouche A, Boumediene K, Baugé C. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Oct 30;25(21):11656. doi: 10.3390/ijms252111656.

Role of Plant Materials with Anti-inflammatory Effects in Phytotherapy of Osteoarthritis. Geszke-Moritz M, Nowak G, Moritz M, Feist B, Nycz JE. Curr Top Med Chem. 2025;25(1):35-46. doi: 10.2174/0115680266297662240527105450.

 

Stress: the invisible enemy of fertility?

Stress: the invisible enemy of fertility?

Fertility problems: what if Stress was the invisible enemy?

By Marc Dellière

Under stress, the brain perceives the environment as unsuitable for reproduction.

It then naturally slows down fertility-related processes, as a protective mechanism.

Added to this is a significant psychological impact: the difficulty of conceiving itself becomes a major source of anxiety… which reinforces the blockage.

Chronic stress activates the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, increasing cortisol, which inhibits the HPG (hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal) axis, key to reproduction. This disrupts sexual hormone production, reducing fertility and impairing ovulation in women and spermatogenesis in men.

In periods of prolonged stress, the body also mobilizes more cholesterol to produce cortisol via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This biological priority mechanism can redirect resources away from the synthesis of other steroid hormones such as DHEA, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

Fewer resources are therefore available for fertility, which can contribute to hormonal disorders, reduced libido and irregular cycles in women.

In women

It can lead to ovulation disorders, irregular cycles or even amenorrhea.

Studies have shown that stress can suppress the HPG axis, leading to ovulatory dysfunctions, reduced sexual steroidogenesis (synthesis of steroid hormones, i.e. those originating from cholesterol: gynecological hormones, estrogen, progesterone, and male hormones, testosterone) and reduced fertility in women of childbearing age.

In men

It can reduce sperm quality and quantity.

Psychological stress is associated with reduced sperm concentration, altered sperm morphology and reduced sperm motility. Oxidative stress, linked to an excess of free radicals, also alters gametes DNA, compromising their quality.

Chronic stress also alters sleep quality, disrupting the secretion of leptin (satiety hormone) and ghrelin (hunger hormone), thus contributing to caloric overconsumption. These metabolic disturbances may influence fertility, although the precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated.

“During our first IVF (in vitro fertilization) attempt, I was overwhelmed by anxiety. I felt like everything depended on this cycle. I controlled everything: the dates, the hormones, the results… But inside, I was in a panic. I couldn’t sleep because of the stress, I often cried for no reason and I took refuge in food. The result was negative. For the second attempt, I started hypnosis coaching to better manage my emotions. I felt calmer, more aligned… and this time, it worked. Today, I’m pregnant. I’m convinced that my psychological state has made a real difference.”

Sophie M., 35

As caregivers, we have a key role to play in breaking the vicious circle between stress and infertility.

Incorporating a holistic approach, focusing on body and mind, not only improves the chances of conception, but also reduces the psychological suffering of patients and those around them.

  • Psychological support
  • Stress management techniques (hypnosis, meditation, CBT)
  • Regular physical activity
  • Appropriate nutrition
  • Support for family and friends or discussion groups

Sources:

Rooney KL, Domar AD. The relationship between stress and infertility. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2018 Mar;20(1):41-47. doi:10.31887/DCNS.2018.20.1/klrooney. 

Kim J, Whitcomb BW, Kwan B, Zava D, Sluss PM, Dietz A, Shliakhtsitsava K, Romero SAD, Natarajan L, Su HI. Psychosocial stress and ovarian function in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Hum Reprod. 2021 Jan 25;36(2):405-414. doi: 10.1093/humrep/deaa313. 

Aitken RJ. Impact of oxidative stress on male and female germ cells: implications for fertility. Reproduction. 2020 Apr;159(4):R189-R201. doi: 10.1530/REP-19-0452. 

Nikolaeva M, Arefieva A, Babayan A, Chagovets V, Kitsilovskaya N, Starodubtseva N, Frankevich V, Kalinina E, Krechetova L, Sukhikh G. Immunoendocrine Markers of Stress in Seminal Plasma at IVF/ICSI Failure: a Preliminary Study. Reprod Sci. 2021 Jan;28(1):144-158. doi: 10.1007/s43032-020-00253-z.

Scollo A, Cotticelli A, Peric T, Perrucci A, Prandi A, Ferrari P. Hair Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA(S)) and Cortisol/DHEA(S) Ratio as Long-Lasting Biomarkers of Clinical Syndromes Exhibited by Piglets Early in Life. Animals (Basel). 2025 Apr 3;15(7):1032. doi: 10.3390/ani15071032.

Gleicher N, Seier K, Kushnir VA, Weghofer A, Wu YG, Wang Q, Albertini DF, Barad DH. Associations between peripheral androgens and cortisol in infertile women. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2016 Apr;158:82-89. doi: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.01.004.

Chimote BN, Chimote NM. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and Its Sulfate (DHEA-S) in Mammalian Reproduction: Known Roles and Novel Paradigms. Vitam Horm. 2018;108:223-250. doi: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.02.001.

Water’s Influence on Blood Sugar: Separating Fact from Fiction

Water’s Influence on Blood Sugar: Separating Fact from Fiction

Water is life’s most basic necessity yet; its role in health extends well beyond preventing mere thirst. Scientists now recognize the intricate ways hydration status influences core processes like blood sugar regulation. With metabolic conditions reaching epidemic scales globally, understanding water’s impact on glycemic control becomes pivotal. 

In this blog, we analyze emerging science on water-glucose interactions and debunk common myths about it explaining mechanisms underpinning water’s assistance in blood sugar management. 

Water’s Vital but Variable Role

Water constitutes over 60% of adult body weight with fluid balance crucial for homeostasis. But hydration needs and effects fluctuate significantly based on health state, climate and activities. Water may provide neutral, beneficial or even adverse effects on blood sugar markers depending on individual context.

For example, plain water clearly assists diabetes management as the optimal no-calorie beverage for thirst without spiking glucose or calories. However large volumes can potentially dilute sodium levels dangerously. Meanwhile, dehydration from restricted fluid intake may benefit glycemia control short term but causes detrimental outcomes longer term. 

This variability means definitive conclusions on water-glucose interactions require nuanced evidence-based evaluation. Any universal declarations on water’s impact could propagate as misguided myths lacking context.

Fact or Fiction? Common Water Beliefs for Blood Sugar

Let’s examine some recurring opinions on hydration and blood glucose using latest scientific benchmarks:

“Drinking more water always lowers blood sugar.” 

Fiction. While helpful for most people as a zero-calorie beverage, excess water intake can adversely lower electrolyte levels in diabetics or those on SGLT-2 inhibitors, causing temporary hyperglycemia from medication side effects. Outcomes differ based on individual health conditions.

“Dehydration from low water intake reduces glycemia.” 

Partly Fact. Studies confirm even mild dehydration increases blood glucose and HbA1c levels as hydration state influences glucose homeostasis. Though lowering glucose levels short term when acutely dehydrated, persistent fluid restriction and thirst triggers rebound high blood sugar from stress responses. 

“Increasing water intake reverses insulin resistance.”

Fiction. No evidence proves higher water consumption alone can reverse cellular insulin signaling dysfunctions driving resistance over the long run. However, even mild persistent dehydration worsens insulin resistance. Adequate hydration helps but is not curative.

As we see, declarative statements on water’s universality in managing blood sugar prove overly simplistic. The truth lies somewhere in the middle, with contextual and personalized guidance needed.  A balanced approach is often the answer.

Holistic Approach to Blood Sugar Management: Hydration, Diet, Exercise, and Pep2Dia®

Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being, particularly for those with diabetes or at risk of developing the condition. While there is no single solution to achieve optimal blood sugar control, a holistic approach that combines several key elements can be highly effective.

One of the most important factors in blood sugar management is staying properly hydrated. Drinking enough water helps to maintain the balance of fluids in the body, which is essential for various physiological processes, including glucose metabolism. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day, and more if you engage in physical activity or live in a hot climate.

In addition to hydration, eating a balanced diet is crucial for managing blood sugar levels. Focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid sugary drinks and snacks, as well as refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which provide sustained energy and help to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Regular physical activity is another key component of a holistic approach to blood sugar management. Exercise helps to improve insulin sensitivity, which allows the body to use glucose more efficiently. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

Finally, incorporating a natural supplement like Pep2Dia® into your routine can provide additional support for blood sugar management. Pep2Dia® is a bioactive peptide derived from milk protein that has been clinically shown to help reduce post-meal sugar peaks. By slowing down the absorption of glucose from the gut, Pep2Dia® helps to prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels after eating.

When combined, these four elements – hydration, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and Pep2Dia® supplementation – create a powerful, holistic approach to blood sugar management. By addressing the issue from multiple angles, individuals can optimize their glucose metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce their risk of developing diabetes and related complications.

While each component of this approach is important, it is the synergistic effect of all four elements working together that provides the greatest benefit. By staying hydrated, eating well, exercising regularly, and incorporating Pep2Dia® into their routine, individuals can take control of their blood sugar health and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Pep2Dia®: A New Perspective on Blood Sugar Management

Pep2Dia®: A New Perspective on Blood Sugar Management

Over time, poor diet and lifestyle factors can impair our body’s ability to regulate blood sugar properly. The resulting glucose spikes after carb-heavy meals paired with inadequate insulin trigger a cascade of health issues from stubborn body fat to diabetes down the road.

Rather than resort to synthetic drugs with side effects, nutrition science now provides smarter solutions that work with your body’s natural sugar balancing rhythms. Developed by global dairy ingredients innovator Ingredia, the novel bioactive peptide hydrolysate, Pep2Dia® is clinically demonstrated to help maintain healthy blood sugar fluctuations naturally.

In this article, we’ll explore the science and mechanism behind Pep2Dia’s® efficacy for glycemic support, revealing a breakthrough natural ingredient for one of today’s most pressing health challenges.

The Blood Sugar Balancing Act

Breaking down carbohydrate foods into usable sugar energy requires coordinated hormonal actions. Food digestion releases glucose sugar which triggers insulin secretion to transport energy into cells. Insulin acts as the key allowing glucose to move from blood into tissues to fuel activity.

However, modern diets heavy in processed grains, sugary foods and low fiber cause blood glucose to spike sharply after meals. Meanwhile higher body fat plus sedentary lifestyles induce insulin resistance, blunting sensitivity signals. This makes it harder for insulin to clear excessive blood sugar fast enough.

Over time, the strain of these abnormal sugar and insulin surges leads to inflammatory damage of blood vessels plus organs and metabolic disorders. Early interventions that alleviate these glycemic fluctuations thus prevent downstream issues.

Pep2Dia®- A Multi-Target Peptide Complex

This is where Pep2Dia® comes in – a specialized whey peptide hydrolysate scientifically designed by Ingredia nutrition scientists to influence key regulators that manage healthy blood sugar rises after carb-rich meals. Consisting of several bioactive peptide fractions, Pep2Dia® employs two complementary mechanisms to smooth out glucose spikes gently and naturally, inhibition on alpha glucosidase and effects on GLP-1.

Slows Digestion of Carbs

Pep2Dia® firstly contains an amino acid sequence proven to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, the enzyme that breaks down starch and disaccharides into simple glucose to be absorbed. Temporarily decreasing alpha-glucosidase activity, Pep2Dia® slows digestion of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. This attenuates and prolongs post-meal glucose release into the bloodstream for steadier rises rather than sudden spikes that overwhelm.

Multiple randomized controlled trials verify Pep2Dia’s® efficacy in lowering postprandial glycemia via this mechanism without side effects.

This sets Pep2Dia® apart from single target options like basic alpha-glucosidase inhibitors as a multi-action peptide hydrolysate targeting the entire glucose metabolism cycle – from digestion to uptake and utilization for comprehensive support.

Ingredia: Pioneering Peptide Innovation

What enables game changing solutions like blood sugar optimizing Pep2Dia® is ingredient innovation leader Ingredia’s absolute commitment to science-led advancement in human nutrition.

As pioneers in bioactive dairy peptides, Ingredia combines its deep expertise in precision separation techniques with proprietary enzyme technologies to derive peptide complexes targeted to health priorities like blood sugar balance.

The Future of Blood Sugar Management

Thanks to globally validated solutions like Pep2Dia®, sustainable nutrition science can now smartly leverage food synergies that gently modulate and support, rather than interfere with, the incredible self-regulating capabilities inherent within our body.

By relying on evidence-based food derived supplements purposefully engineered through meticulous bioprocessing to influence intrinsic glycemic pathways, we herald food as medicine 2.0 – where clinically proven ingredients amplify dietary efforts to prevent rather than just manage modern health epidemics.

Pep2Dia’s® arrival thus signals a fundamental shift from prescription drug interventions downstream that often come with adverse effects towards gentle safeguards far upstream bolstering our body’s own capacity for balance as the first line of defense. This DNA marks the next era heralding a new generation of food inspired solutions backed by science that deliver efficacy for real people within ethical parameters.

Through breakthrough bioactives like Pep2Dia®, Ingredia uplifts dairy ingredients from simply nutritional to powerfully therapeutic – restoring metabolic equilibrium gently, daily and decisively so we stay healthy and nourished on our terms.