According to a study conducted by experts at the University of Toronto, replacing traditional carbohydrates with nuts contributes to more reliable maintenance of glucose levels within the normal range for patients suffering from type 2 diabetes. This conclusion is critically important because maintaining a stable blood sugar concentration helps minimize the risk of developing serious complications, such as cardiovascular pathologies, kidney failure, and the progression of vision problems. Replacing carbohydrates with nut products ensures better regulation of blood glucose concentration. In this context, nuts are considered not only as a popular snack but also as a treasure trove of essential nutrients. They saturate the body with vegetable proteins, dietary fiber, a complex of vitamins and minerals, and, most importantly, beneficial unsaturated fats. The most popular varieties—almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, peanuts, and pecans—are characterized by high nutritional density and have long been the focus of nutrition specialists. Previous research has indicated their ability to reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases and aid in weight management, but the latest work allowed for a more detailed assessment of their potential in the context of diabetes. The study involved 117 older volunteers undergoing glucose-lowering treatment. Participants were divided into three groups. The first group consumed 75 grams of a nut mix daily; the second group received muffins made from whole-grain flour, comparable in energy value and protein content but serving as a source of carbohydrates; the third group received reduced portions of both types of products. The dietary regimen was maintained for three months. At the end of the experiment, the most pronounced positive shifts were observed in those who regularly consumed the prescribed amount of nuts. Their glycemic parameters improved, and cholesterol levels decreased, including LDL and non-HDL fractions, which are considered the most dangerous for the vascular wall. These results serve as an indicator of reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation and, consequently, a decreased probability of acute vascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke. The analysis also highlighted that each variety of nut possesses a unique nutritional value profile. Almonds stand out for their high calcium and vitamin content, pecans are rich in fiber, macadamia nuts in healthy fats, and walnuts are an important source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are critically important for cardiovascular health. Scientists note the need for further study of the influence of specific types of nuts, but the data already available convincingly demonstrate that integrating nuts into the daily diet can significantly improve the well-being of people with type 2 diabetes.
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