High-Glycemic Diets Linked to Higher Risk of Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, and Cancer
A new study published in the Lancet Diabetes Endocrinology has confirmed that diets with a high glycemic index (GI) of foods or meals (glycemic load, or CG) are associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes-related cancers.
The study, led by a team of scientists at the University of Toronto, was a meta-analysis of 48 previous studies evaluating associations between GI, CG, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, diabetes-related cancers, and all-cause mortality. The research revealed that high-glycemic diets are linked to an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, diabetes-related cancers, and all-cause mortality. Additionally, high glycemic load was also associated with an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The study emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the quality of carbohydrates in everyday nutrition. Instead of measuring the glycemic index of foods at home, the researchers advise consuming whole grains enriched with fiber, along with other macronutrients such as good fats. Foods with high glycemic index should not be consumed alone, and it is recommended to add fibers and other macronutrients alongside carbohydrates.
According to David Jenkins, the first signatory of the research, the study was conducted in response to a meta-analysis by the World Health Organization published in The Lancet in 2019, which concluded that there was a low relevance of GI and CG in the incidence of chronic diseases or mortality. The findings of this new study suggest that paying attention to the quality of carbohydrates and choosing whole grains enriched with fiber in everyday dietary guidelines can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
The study also highlights the significance of cooking methods in affecting the glycemic index of meals. For example, overcooked pasta has a higher GI compared to al dente pasta, and the addition of vegetables and fish can further lower the glycemic load of the meal.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of consuming a diet rich in whole grains and fiber, and recommends avoiding foods with high glycemic index and adding other macronutrients to carbohydrates for overall health and wellbeing.