Aim: To identify the effect of a nutritional liquid supplement designed for the patient with diabetes mellitus (Glucerna SR) in single administration on the postprandial glucose state, insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity in healthy subjects.
Methods: A randomized, single-blind, cross-over, clinical trial was carried out in 14 young, healthy, non-obese, volunteers. A basal metabolic profile, which included glucose level, insulin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, and uric acid, was measured. Subjects received a single administration of 300 kcal, gauged with water at 350 ml, of each of the following (at least 3 days apart): glucose 75 g, polymeric supplement (Ensure high calcium) 315 ml or Glucerna SR 323 ml. At the beginning of each administration and 30, 60, 90 and 120 min later, glucose and insulin concentrations were measured. Areas under the curve of glucose and insulin were calculated. First-phase and total insulin secretions and insulin sensitivity were also estimated.
Results: Glucose level at 120 min was significantly lower after receiving Ensure high calcium or Glucerna SR. Administration of Glucerna SR resulted in a significant reduction in the areas under the curve of glucose and insulin, as well as in total insulin secretion with a tendency to be lower in their first phase. Insulin sensitivity was increased.
Conclusions: A single administration of Glucerna SR to healthy subjects decreased the postprandial glucose and insulin states, as well as the insulin secretion; insulin sensitivity increased.