The Glycemic Indices of Five Common Varieties of Dates in the Tested Among Healthy and Diabetic Subjects

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has transitioned rapidly over the last 40 years. This has lead to a dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity, metabolic syndrome, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, prediabetes and diabetes. Daily consumption of dates is the norm.The main objectives of this study is to measure the composition of five common types of dates (Fara'd, Lulu, Abu ouma'n, Dabbas and Khalas) and to calculate their Glycemic Indices (GI) of these dates tested equally in healthy and diabetic subjects. Thirteen healthy volunteers and ten subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus were enrolled in the study. The dates' flesh composition analysis showed that the dates contain a high percentage of carbohydrate (total sugars, 65-68%).

The measured mean glycemic indices of the dates among healthy individuals were 54.0, 53.5, 46.3, 49.1 and 55.1 for Fara'd, Lulu, Abu Ouma'n, Dabbas and Khalas, respectively. Corresponding mean glycemic indices among individuals with type 2 diabetes were very similar 46.1, 43.8, 51.8, 50.2, and 53.0. Thus the tested five varieties of the dates are classified as low glycemic index food items with potential health benefits for healthy and diabetic individuals alike.

Inclusion criteria

• Adult
• Healthy or having controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus

Exclusion criteria

• Morbid obesity (BMI > 40)
• Presence of gastroenterological disorders
• Alimentary tract surgery
• A history of gastroenteritis in the prior six months
• Any disease that may affect glucose metabolism
• Alcohol intake
• Smoking
• Taking any medications (except metformin)
• Poorly uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c > 8%)
• The presence of chronic diseases or the presence of acute illness