This study from the CORDIOPREV trial explored how small genetic molecules known as microRNAs (miRNAs) could assist doctors in selecting the most suitable diet for patients with both heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, potentially aiding in the reversal of their diabetes.
The researchers monitored 190 patients who had heart disease and were newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. These patients were randomly assigned to either a Mediterranean diet or a low-fat diet for a duration of 5 years. At the end of this period, 73 patients successfully reversed their diabetes (referred to as “Responders”), while 110 continued to have the condition (“Non-responders”).
The key findings were:
- Patients with low levels of a specific miRNA (miR-let7b-3p) in their blood had a higher likelihood of reversing diabetes when adhering to a low-fat diet.
- Patients with elevated levels of three different miRNAs (miR-141-5p, miR-182, and miR-192) had better chances of diabetes reversal when following the Mediterranean diet.
The researchers created scoring systems combining these miRNA measurements with clinical factors like weight, blood pressure, and other health markers. These scores helped predict which diet would be more effective for each patient in achieving diabetes remission.
This is significant because Type 2 diabetes is a major global health issue impacting millions, especially those with heart disease. While it is established that dietary changes can aid in reversing diabetes, there has not been a dependable method to determine which diet would be most beneficial for individual patients.
The study indicates that by measuring these miRNAs in a patient’s blood, doctors may be able to tailor dietary recommendations, opting for either a Mediterranean or low-fat diet based on which is more likely to assist that specific patient in reversing their diabetes. This could pave the way for more effective treatment strategies and improved outcomes for patients dealing with both heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.
The research marks a progression toward personalized nutrition therapy, where treatments can be customized to individual needs.
