Effect of Fructose and Its Epimers on Postprandial Carbohydrate Metabolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Summary

This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized evidence of the effect of small doses (≤30g/meal) of fructose and its epimers (allulose, tagatose, and sorbose) on postprandial glucose and insulin responses. Forty trial comparisons (n=400) were included. Allulose significantly reduced the postprandial iAUC glucose response by 10% (0.90 [0.84 to 0.96], P<0.01). Tagatose significantly reduced the postprandial iAUC insulin response by 25% (0.75 [0.62 to 0.91], P<0.01).

Key Findings

• Allulose significantly reduced the postprandial iAUC glucose response by 10% (0.90 [0.84 to 0.96], P<0.01).
• Tagatose significantly reduced the postprandial iAUC insulin response by 25% (0.75 [0.62 to 0.91], P<0.01).

Industry Relevance

This research reinforces allulose's metabolic benefits — supporting its positioning as a functional ingredient for blood glucose management, weight control, and metabolic health. For food and beverage manufacturers, these findings provide scientific substantiation for product claims related to glycemic response and appetite regulation.

Read the full paper: Clinical Nutrition | DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2020.03.002