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The aim of the thesis was to determine whether synergistic or additive metabolic benefits could be derived with the use of two plant-based components with independent physiological activities and whether the use of these two agents would improve diabetes control in the long term. Viscous fibres reduce postprandial glycaemia, insulinaemia and gastrointestinal hormones levels, their effectiveness being dependent on the viscosity of the fibre. Long term studies with viscous fibre have shown reductions in serum cholesterol, and improvements in metabolic control and blood pressure in type 2 diabetes. Konjac mannan fibre (KJM) is a high viscosity, viscous fibre. American ginseng (AG) increases insulin secretion and improves glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes. The suggested active ginseng components are the ginsenosides. As both AG and KJM have been shown to improve diabetes control through independent physiological mechanisms, this thesis explores the possible benefits of using them in combination. To test potential additive effects of KJM and AG, an acute experiment was performed in thirteen subjects with type 2 diabetes where AG and/or KJM were incorporated into a liquid meal replacement as a breakfast, followed 4 hours later by a standard lunch. Contrary to previous findings, neither AG or KJM when given individually, reduced postprandial glucose and insulin levels by the expected amounts; moreover the combination did not result in glucose levels significantly different from control. The study did demonstrate that KJM flattens the postprandial response of glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (p |
