A Comparative Study between Millet Consumers and Non-Millet Consumers and Its Impact on Blood Glucose Levels in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent high blood sugar levels, caused by impaired insulin secretion, resistance to insulin action, or both. It has become a growing global public health concern, with the number of affected individuals expected to rise significantly in the coming years. Millets have gained attention for their low Glycemic Index and high nutritional value. This study aims to compare between millet consumers and non-millet consumers and its impact on blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 150 male and female participants, out of which 75 participants were millet consumers and 75 participants were non-millet consumers participants aged 40 to 60 years residing in Mumbai, recruited through purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The mean age of participants was 52.3±6.2 years, with no significant sociodemographic differences between millet and non-millet consumers. The study revealed that millet consumers had significantly better fasting, postprandial blood glucose, and HbA1c levels compared to non-millet consumers (p < 0.05). The study found that the mean fasting blood glucose (139.4 ± 53.5 mg/dL), postprandial blood glucose (198.0 ± 88.8 mg/dL), and HbA1c levels (7.8 ± 1.5%) showed a significant difference between millet and non-millet consumers (p < 0.05). Sorghum (Jowar) was the most frequently consumed millet. A significant positive correlation was noted between HbA1c and Amaranth (rajgira) millet consumption (r = 0.252, p = 0.029). Energy and protein intakes were similar between groups. Millet consumers had significantly higher calcium and potassium intakes (p < 0.05), with a lower carbohydrate and slightly  higher  fat  energy  contribution,  indicating  better  mineral adequacy with millet consumption. Calcium, potassium, and fiber intake were negatively correlated with glycemic markers, while sodium intake showed a positive correlation with postprandial glucose (p < 0.05). This study highlights that millet consumers showed better glycemic control, healthier eating habits, and higher calcium and potassium intakes.