Effects of Peanut and Peanut Butter Consumption on Blood Lipids and Glycemic Control in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

Peanuts and peanut butter contain high levels of monounsaturated fat (MUFA), arginine, fiber, phytosterols, resveratrol and vitamin E that have the potential to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk through improved blood glucose control and favorable modification of blood lipids. When substituted for saturated fat in the diet, MUFA may have important metabolic benefits for persons with diabetes. Therefore, the investigators propose to study the effects of a peanut and peanut butter-enriched diet on markers of CVD risk factors in free-living adults with diabetes residing in Southern California. This study's primary clinical outcome will be high-density lipoprotein (HDL) - cholesterol. Secondary outcomes will include additional serum lipids (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) - cholesterol and triacylglycerol), glucose, HbA1c, and anthropometry (body weight, body composition and waist circumference). This study will provide vital information about the role of peanuts and peanut butter in modulating blood glucose homeostasis and CVD risk factors among adults with diabetes.