Potatoes Maintain Blood Sugar Control Overnight in Those With Type 2 Diabetes

Contrary to popular dietary guidance, eating potatoes may help those with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar overnight, according to a study published in Clinical Nutrition. Twenty-four participants with type 2 diabetes ate one of four experimental dinners that included potatoes prepared multiple ways versus a dinner with basmati rice. Researchers funded by the Alliance for Potato Research and Education (APRE) tracked blood sugar levels from blood samples before, after, and at 30-minute intervals for two hours after the meal. Participants wore blood glucose monitors overnight, as well. Results showed no differences in glucose response between meals, whereas overnight glucose response was more controlled after a potato dinner than the rice meal. Based on these results, the authors stress that clinicians consider foods in the context of meals and not exclude high glycemic index, affordable, and nutrient-dense foods such as potatoes for patients with type 2 diabetes.