The effect of peanuts and almonds on blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes

This study compared the effect of almonds and peanuts, as part of a low carbohydrate diet, on blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The study found that both almonds and peanuts decreased blood glucose levels in these patients. 

A low carbohydrate diet (LCD) is effective in reducing weight, improving blood glucose and regulating cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Tree nuts, such as almonds, have been shown to improve blood sugar control and reduce body weight. However, it is difficult to promote tree nuts in patients with T2D due to their high cost, especially in developing countries. On the other hand, ground nuts such as peanuts are much more affordable and widely accessible. It is not known whether tree nuts and ground nuts have similar benefits for patients with T2D.  

This study included 32 patients with T2D. Patients were randomly assigned to either the peanut group (15 patients) or the almond group (17 patients). Patients were also recommended a LCD. Patients were followed for 3 months.

The fasting blood glucose levels and the after-meal blood glucose levels of both groups significantly decreased over 3 months. However, there were no differences between the peanut and the almond groups. There was a significant reduction (by 0.58%) in the HbA1c (long-term blood sugar control test) in the almond group. In the peanut group, there were no differences in HbA1c levels after 3 months. However, at 3 months there was no significant difference in HbA1c levels between the almond and peanut groups.

Body weight did not increase in either group and there was no change in cholesterol levels.

The authors concluded that both almonds and peanuts have similar effects on improving fasting and after-meal blood glucose levels together with a LCD in patients with T2D.

This study had a very small number of patients. Also, the almond group included patients with lower HbA1c levels at the beginning. Larger studies are needed for more conclusive results.

Discuss with your doctor about adding nuts into your low carbohydrate diet.