Effects of Bitter Almond Gum on Glycemic Control and Oxidative Stress in Women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is marked by hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation. Prebiotics, such as bitter almond gum, have the potential to influence gut microbiota and metabolic parameters, suggesting their role as dietary interventions for enhancing glycemic control in the management of T2DM. This study evaluated the effects of bitter almond gum on glycemic indices, oxidative stress, and oxidant biomarkers in individuals with T2DM. A randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of bitter almond gum supplementation. Forty-four women with T2DM were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n = 22) or a control group (n = 22), receiving 5 g per day of bitter almond gum or maltodextrin, respectively, for 8 weeks. The outcomes measured included glycemic indices, lipopolysaccharide levels, oxidative stress markers, and antioxidant biomarkers at baseline and after 8 weeks. Bitter almond gum supplementation resulted in significant reductions in insulin levels (-1.23 mg/dL), LPS levels (-6.32 mg/dL), pentosidine (-38.02 mg/dL), and an oxidative stress index (OSI) (-5.59 mg/dL). Conversely, bitter almond gum supplementation led to increases in McAuley_index (0.20 mg/dL), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (0.18 mg/dL), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (180.20 mg/dL), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (2.21 mg/dL). These findings indicate that bitter almond gum supplementation for 8 weeks may improve glycemic control, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance antioxidant defenses in women with T2DM. The results of this study suggest that bitter almond gum has potential as a complementary functional food for managing diabetes. However, it is essential to note that this study was conducted in a clinical trial setting and the findings should be interpreted with caution when considering its use in a real-world setting.