Effects of Pulses on Insulin Sensitivity: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Trials
Session Number
1
Advisor(s)
Britt Burton-Freeman, Indika Edirisinghe, Illinois Institute of Technology
Location
a119
Discipline
Medical and Health Sciences
Start Date
15-4-2026 10:15 AM
End Date
15-4-2026 11:00 AM
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic, preventable metabolic disease in which the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to increased blood glucose levels and contributing significantly to global mortality. Diet is the largest factor in the prevention and management of T2DM. Pulses, the edible seeds of legumes, including beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas, are nutrient-dense foods rich in dietary fiber, resistant starch, plant-based protein, and polyphenolic antioxidant compounds. Pulses have been widely studied for their low glycemic index and potential cardiometabolic benefits, but results from human clinical trials vary heavily depending on population size, intervention length, and pulse type. This review aims to evaluate the current evidence from 52 human clinical trials published between 2004 and 2025 on glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and obesity. In summary, the available evidence supports the notion that regular pulse consumption enhances insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing the risk of cardiometabolic disease.
Effects of Pulses on Insulin Sensitivity: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Trials
a119
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic, preventable metabolic disease in which the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to increased blood glucose levels and contributing significantly to global mortality. Diet is the largest factor in the prevention and management of T2DM. Pulses, the edible seeds of legumes, including beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas, are nutrient-dense foods rich in dietary fiber, resistant starch, plant-based protein, and polyphenolic antioxidant compounds. Pulses have been widely studied for their low glycemic index and potential cardiometabolic benefits, but results from human clinical trials vary heavily depending on population size, intervention length, and pulse type. This review aims to evaluate the current evidence from 52 human clinical trials published between 2004 and 2025 on glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, and obesity. In summary, the available evidence supports the notion that regular pulse consumption enhances insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing the risk of cardiometabolic disease.