Aim: 

The aim of the present study was to investigate the beneficial effect of diet treatment in aging people affected by glucose intolerance.

Methods: 

77 glucose intolerant patients (42 females), 65–80 years old, attending the Outpatient Clinics were studied. Anthropometric measurements (Waist Circumference, WC, Hip Circumference, HP, Body Mass Index, BMI) and bio-impedance analysis were performed before and after treatment. Plasma glucose, baseline insulin, Hb1Ac and HOMA index were detected. The patients were treated with hypocaloric diet characterized by divided carbohydrate intake for three months.

Results: 

Females showed significant reductions in BMI (33.59 ± 7.09 vs. 34.98 ± 7.52 kg/mq baseline), WC (102.79 ± 15.31 vs. 106.60 ± 16.87 cm), plasma glucose (109.95 ± 11.90 vs. 127.56 ± 16.53 mg/dL), Hb1Ac (5.80 ± 0.69% vs. 6.41±1.36%), plasma triglycerides (155.97 ± 12.03 vs. 158.61 ± 14.70 mg/dL), baseline insulin (12.96 ± 6.92 vs. 10.98 ± 6.09 UI/L), HOMA index (2,55 ± 1,04 vs 3,52 ± 1,07). Males showed a significant decrease in BMI (30.48 ± 4.90 vs. 32.39 ± 5.84 kg/mq), WC (104.64 ± 12.45 vs. 110.63 ± 14.40 cm), plasma glucose (106.49 ± 10.84 vs. 131.14 ± 21.44 mg/dL), Hb1Ac (5.40 ± 1.35% vs 5.89 ± 0.70%), plasma triglycerides (128.89 ± 26.03 vs. 158.06 ± 41.12 mg/dL), baseline insulin (11.49 ± 6.85 vs. 18.1±13.13 UI/L), HOMA index (3,05 ± 1,78 vs. 5,70 ± 3,60).

Conclusions: 

Hypocaloric diet, with divided carbohydrate intake, improved nutritional status and caused reduction in insulin resistance, ameliorating glucose metabolism and quality of life in elderly.