Chinese researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials to examine the influence of probiotics on glycemic control. These studies included yogurt consumption. Two independent researchers selected relevant data and evaluated the risk of bias and study quality. Research results were collected by using a random-effects model and were reported as mean differences (MD).
Beneficial effects of probiotics
17 randomized control trials were considered, whereby 17 fasting blood glucose (n = 1105), 11 fasting plasma insulin (n = 788), 8 homeostasis model assessments of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, n = 635) evaluations were described. In contrast with a placebo, probiotic intake significantly reduced fasting glucose (MD = -0.31 mmol/L), fasting plasma insulin (MD = -1.29 μU/mL), and HOMA-IR (MD = 0.48). These findings are consistent with a recent meta-analysis, which suggests that yogurt consumption may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes with 18%.
