Adelaide researchers at SAHMRI looking for people to take part in almonds study
THIS humble nut could be the key to reducing the risk of developing type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
THIS humble nut could be the key to reducing the risk of developing type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
CSIRO researchers, based at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, are studying the role almonds play in reducing liver fat levels, blood glucose control and overall gut health.
They will recruit 100 overweight adults aged between 20 and 70 to explore the effects of daily almond consumption in people at risk of major health problems such as fatty liver disease and diabetes.
Head researcher Dr Jane Bowen, a research dietitian in the CSIRO Health and Biosecurity team, said previous studies found people who ate nuts had good health and were often leaner than people who did not consume them.
“What we’re really interested in with this study is trying to see what happens when you swap regular between-meal snacks with almonds,” she said.
Half the study participants will be required to eat 30g of almonds twice a day, while the other half will eat one shortbread biscuit at each snack time.
“We want to explore whether a simple change from a regular morning and afternoon tea will change your blood glucose control, the bugs in your gut and also the amount of fat on your liver,” Dr Bowen said.
During the eight-week study period, researchers will perform a range of tests at SAHMRI, including liver scans, to determine the findings.
“Almonds are high in fibre and phytonutrients (and) we know that changes the bacteria in your gut,” Dr Bowen said.
“The very new research is producing more and more evidence to show that a healthy gut makes a lot of difference to all the different systems in your body ... all of these things are correlated.”
Dr Bowen said her team had been interested in almonds, and their correlation with health, for a long time.
As well as the potential internal benefits, she said almonds made an ideal snack.
“You have to chew on them and they really do fill you up,” Dr Bowen said.
Study participants must be Adelaide-based. For information about taking part call 8303 8876.
