India's Diabetes Crisis

In October 2024, a clinical trial published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition highlighted the role of diets rich in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in contributing to India's status as the diabetes capital of the world.

Key Points

AGEs and Diabetes Risk: The study, funded by the Department of Biotechnology, found that diets high in AGEs, which are commonly found in ultra-processed and fast foods, are a major contributor to diabetes in India.
These harmful compounds form when sugars react with fats or proteins during high-temperature cooking like frying or roasting.
Low-AGE Diets Improve Health Outcomes: Low-AGE diets showed significant improvement in insulin sensitivity and a reduction in inflammation.
Researchers observed that following a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Clinical Trial Findings: In the 12-week clinical trial, overweight or obese adults were split into two groups—one following a low-AGE diet, the other a high-AGE diet.
The low-AGE diet group exhibited better insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation, lowering their risk for future diabetes.
Government and Policy Implications: As India battles rising obesity and diabetes rates, this study provides critical insights for policymakers. It calls for greater awareness and potential dietary reforms to address the growing public health crisis.