Drinking a glass of milk or eating a pot of yogurt every day may be enough to prevent type 2 diabetes.
At least that’s what a study carried out by researchers at the University of Naples Federico II, in Italy, predicts.
According to researchers, dairy products are rich in nutrients, vitamins and other bioactive compounds that can favorably influence glucose metabolism, that is, the processing of sugar by the body.
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Study discovers foods that promote glucose metabolism
Doctor Annalisa Giosuè, main author of the study, explained what they observed during the research.
“Probiotics are also known to exert beneficial effects on glucose metabolism, which may explain why we found that regular yogurt consumption is associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.”
Study Details
To reach the results, the study was based on data from 13 previous scientific reviews.
These reviews involved a total of 175 studies that sought a relationship between the consumption of 12 foods of animal origin and the development of type 2 diabetes.
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Yogurt can prevent type 2 diabetes
In addition to yogurt and milk, researchers looked at the role of red meat, white meat, processed meats such as bacon and sausages, and fish.
Furthermore, they also evaluated cheese and eggs. On the other hand, researchers concluded that the consumption of red meat and processed meat increases the risk of developing the disease by approximately 20%.
What causes a person to have diabetes?
Genetic predisposition
A family history of diabetes significantly increases a person’s risk of developing the disease. Therefore, if one or both parents have diabetes, the chances of their children developing the condition are also greater.
Sedentary lifestyle
Lack of regular physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of diabetes. On the other hand, regular exercise helps control blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, thus reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Unhealthy diet
A diet rich in processed foods, added sugars, saturated fats and low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. Likewise, excessive calorie consumption and weight gain also increase the risk.
Obesity and overweight
Excess weight, especially when concentrated in the abdominal region, is strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. Abdominal adipose tissue produces hormones and chemicals that can interfere with glucose and insulin metabolism.
Insulin resistance
Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells do not respond adequately to insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar. As a result, this can lead to high blood glucose levels and, eventually, the development of type 2 diabetes.
