Reduction of postprandial plasma glucose by Bengal gram dal (Cicer arietinum) and Rajmah (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Abstract

Postprandial plasma glucose levels were measured in six healthy subjects at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min after taking 50 g of carbohydrate in the form of wheat, rice, bengal gram dal (channa dal), and rajmah (red kidney beans) and compared with the plasma glucose values obtained after taking 50 g dextrose. Bengal gram dal and rajmah, when compared with dextrose, were found to be more effective in reducing postprandial plasma glucose levels than wheat and rice. Moreover, the mean peak rise in plasma glucose was decreased by 82.1% with bengal gram dal, 67% with rajmah, while wheat and rice showed reduction only by 25 and 16%, respectively, when compared with dextrose. This study suggests a reappraisal of the diet for diabetics.