PhD conferral Ms. Louise J.C.J. den Biggelaar, MSc.

"Nutrition and beta-cell function; towards a better understanding of the effects of diet on type 2 diabetes”

Keywords: diet, type 2 diabetes, insulin, fibre, diet

Previous research has found that an unhealthy diet increases the risk of type 2 diabetes. Insulin plays an important role in the development of diabetes. If the body fails to produce enough insulin, the body’s blood sugar level rises. This can result in diabetes. This study examined the relationship between several foods and insulin production in the body. It found that people who eat a diet high in fibre and monounsaturated fats are much more efficient at producing insulin. It also found that people who consume a large number of light soft drinks are less efficient at producing insulin, thereby increasing the risk of diabetes.