Background
Type 2 diabetes (hereafter referred to as diabetes) is a disease characterized by high blood glucose. The earliest sign of a person’s predisposition to diabetes is insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is when the tissues react less to the action of insulin. This can happen when the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood is increased for a prolonged period. This condition is commonly found in people with abdominal obesity. Diet is a central factor that influences diabetes risk. Recent research has shown that dairy products, especially yogurt and cheese, may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
What is the goal of the study?
The purpose of this study is to determine whether eating dairy products (milk, cheese, and yogurt) with differing fat content can improve the body’s response to insulin in overweight and obese people at risk of developing diabetes.
To be eligible for the study you:
- are between 30 to 65 years old
- are overweight or obese
- are a non-smoker
- have no major health problems
- are not pregnant or breastfeeding
There are other eligibility requirements that the study coordinator will review. Only the study doctor can finally determine whether you are eligible to participate in the study or not.
What does this study involve?
Participants will be instructed to consume different amounts of dairy products each day. The dairy products will be provided free of charge during the study. Study outcomes will be assessed during seven study visits spread out over a four month period. Each visit ranges from one to six hours, depending on the visit. Study visits include questionnaires, blood samples and medical tests. This is a list of the study procedures.
Where does the study take place?
Study visits take place at the MUHC Glen site in Montreal and some follow-ups are available at the Nutrition Research Unit of McGill University located in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue. Click here for information on the study sites.
What are the benefits to participating in this study?
- Contribute to the discovery of dietary treatments which may prevent the development of diabetes and its complications.
- Obtain detailed information about your health other than what is normally available in clinic.
- Dairy products provided for 12 weeks.
The study is approved by the MUHC Research Ethics Board and adheres to established policies.
