A Sesame Seeds-Based Breakfast Could Attenuate Sub-Clinical Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Tahini, a traditional functional food made from ground un-hulled sesame seeds, on glucose homeostasis parameters and serum high-sensitive reactive protein (hs-CRP) in diabetic patients. Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 41 patients with type 2 diabetes, who were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group A (Tahini 30 g/d, n=21) and group B (control, n=20). After an initial 2-week washout period, patients in group A, replaced a part of their usual breakfast with 2 tbsp (~28 g) Tahini, while group B patients continued the usual breakfast meal for 6 weeks. Insulin and hs-CRP levels were measured, and insulin sensitivity index and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) at were calculated baseline and 6 weeks intervention. Results: After 6-weeks, there was a significant 21.1% decrease in serum hs-CRP levels in group A. Slight but non-significant decrease in fasting serum glucose, serum insulin, insulin sensitivity index and HOMA-IR was observed during Tahini supplementation. Conclusion: Replacing a part of regular diet with Tahini as a functional food could attenuate sub-clinical inflammation in type 2 diabetic patients.