A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Potential of Millets for Managing and Reducing the Risk of Developing Diabetes Mellitus

Millets (including sorghum) are known to be highly nutritious besides having a low carbon footprint and the ability survive in high temperatures with minimal water. widely recognised as Glycaemic Index (GI) helping manage diabetes. This systematic review meta-analyzes across different types of millets forms processing/cooking collated all evidences. Of 65 studies that were collected globally, 39 111 observations used analyze GI outcomes 56 fasting, post-prandial glucose level, insulin index HbA1c meta-analysis. It is evident from descriptive statistics mean 52.7 ± 10.3, which about 36% lower than typical staples milled rice (71.7 14.4) refined wheat (74.2 14.9). The descriptive, meta regression analyses revealed Job's tears, fonio, foxtail, barnyard, teff (<55) more effective (35–79%) reducing dietary control samples. intermediate (55–69) pearl millet, finger kodo little sorghum have 13–35% (>69). A meta-analysis also showed had significantly ( p < 0.01) white rice, wheat, standard or bread except millet inconsistent data. Long term consumption lowered fasting blood levels by 12 15%, respectively, diabetic subjects. There was significant reduction level (from 6.65 0.4 5.67 0.4%) among pre-diabetic individuals who consumed for long period. Minimally processed 30% lowering meal compared wheat. In conclusion, can beneficial managing risk developing diabetes could therefore design appropriate meals subjects well non-diabetic people preventive approach.