Genes may influence the plasma insulin-reducing activity of whole grains in persons of European descent.
This research work examined the correlation between whole grain consumption and genetic variation and plasma levels of fasting glucose and insulin in persons of European descent. Researchers analyzed data obtained from 14 cohort studies encompassing approximately 48,000 subjects of European descents. The plasma concentrations of fasting glucose and insulin were assessed in all the subjects, as well as the presence of the insulin-raising gene GCKR.
Researchers observed low serum concentrations of fasting glucose and insulin in subjects who consumed diets rich in whole grains regularly. However, fasting insulin levels were found to be slightly reduced in habitual consumers of whole grains who possess the insulin-raising gene GCKR. The findings of this analysis support the hypothesis that genes, such as GCKR, may play a significant role in the association between whole grain and plasma fasting glucose and insulin levels in individuals of European descent.