Diabetes diet trial: Volunteers needed

Eating the right foods to keep diabetes at bay isn’t always easy, but Adelaide researchers are working to develop a diet that is easier to stick to.

Researchers at the University of South Australia are running a trial of two diets to determine which one will better help diabetes sufferers lose weight and control their disease.

Senior research fellow and registered nutritionist Dr Karen Murphy is heading the trial, which is also looking for volunteers.

“Research has actually shown that they have poorer memory function than their non-diabetic counterparts, also with being overweight, people tend to be upset and depressed with how they feel on their body image,” Dr Murphy said.

One of the diets being tested will be high in carbohydrate, while the other will be high in protein, but both will include products from all food groups - including lean fresh pork.

Researchers say the best part about the diets is that they involve a wide range of food like chicken and pork, so participants are less likely to fail.

“If they can follow them and adhere to them better, they might be able to maintain their weight for a longer period of time,” said Associate Professor Grant Brinkworth from the CSIRO.

The six-month trial will see participants:

• Consume a weight loss diet for the first three months, and then follow a maintenance diet for the next three months

• Participate in moderate exercise five times a week

• Have their weight measured fortnightly, talk with a dietician and collect study foods

• And undergo a range of health tests at the beginning, middle and end of the six-month trial

Volunteers are required for the study and will need to meet the following criteria:

• Men and woman aged 18-65

• Overweight

• Non-smokers

• Have diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes

If you fit the above criteria and would like to take part in the study, call (08) 8302 2809.