ACMYCO Nutritional Research Study

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a disease in which blood sugar is not well controlled. This is because the body fails to produce or sense insulin, which is the hormone that controls blood sugar. Research studies have reported that South Asians are nearly four times more prone to develop T2DM and have a poorer blood sugar control than people with European origins.

Diet is the cornerstone treatment for T2DM. People with T2DM are recommended to modify their diets towards a healthy and balanced diet including low glycaemic index and fibre-rich foods. Foods high in fibre reduce the incidence of T2DM and helps controlling blood sugar in people with T2DM.

Mycoprotein is a meat-free food high in both fibre and protein as well as low in fat, which is sold in many supermarkets across the UK under the brand name of “Quorn” in different forms (i.e. nuggets, mince, etc.). We have previously demonstrated that mycoprotein improves blood sugar control in healthy overweight and obese humans. However, we do not know what are the effects of mycoprotein in people with T2DM and if there is a different effect between South Asians and people of European origin.

In addition, guar gum is a type of fibre that is known to be very good at controlling blood sugar in people with T2DM.

Therefore, in this study we will investigate the effects of different types of protein (soy, chicken and Mycoprotein (Quorn)) with and without a fibre called guar gum on blood sugar control and appetite in South Asian and people with European origins with Type 2 Diabetes.

The aim of this study is to see whether mycoprotein given only once (acutely) improves blood sugar control and appetite in South Asians with Type 2 Diabetes and whether this effect is greater with guar gum.

• People who has been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and are not taking insulin

• Have South Asian (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) or European ancestry

• Are aged from 18 to 70 years

• Have a Body Mass Index ≤ 35.0

For a full list of the inclusion and exclusion criteria please see Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria. 

You are SUITABLE to participate if you meet the following criteria:

• Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus who are not taking insulin

• South Asian (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) or European ancestry

• Aged 18 to 70 years

• Body mass index ≤ 35.0

You are NOT SUITABLE to participate if you meet any of the following criteria:

• Non diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

• Mixed ancestors

• Diabetic taking any of the following medications:

• Insulin

• Diabetic medication (Except from metformin and oral hypoglycaemic which are allowed)

• Orlistat

• Have a gastrointestinal, heart, pancreas disease

• Cancer

• Infection requiring antibiotics

• History of alcohol or drug abuse

• Any condition involving the imbalance of hormones

• Are currently participating in another research study or have taken part within 3 month of study entry

• Currently smoking

• Allergy to breathing mould, penicillin, egg, soy

• Asthmatic

• Hypothyroidism

• Weight change of ≥ 5% of total kilograms in the preceding 3 months

• Shift workers

• Vegetarian

• Medical implants that require batteries such as heart pace makers.

The screening visit and the study visits take place at Imperial Clinical Research Facility (ICRF) located in the Imperial Centre for Translational and Experimental Medicine (ICTEM) at Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN.

Closest tube stations are East Acton, White City (Central Line) and Wood Lane (Circle and Hammersmith and City lines). Buses that stop nearby are: 7, 70, 72, 272, 283.

What does the study involve doing? 

You will be asked to attend the ICRF for a total of seven separate visits: one screening visit (approximately 1 hour long) and six separate visits of approximately 5 hours long. 

During the screening visit we will check your study eligibility (involves one blood test). During each study visit, you will be asked to consume a meal containing a source of protein (soy, chicken, mycoprotein with or without a fibre called guar gum). A total of 9 blood samples will be taken throughout each study visit from a cannula over 3 hours. At the end of the study visit a buffet meal of pasta will be served and you will be free to go home.

We measure blood sugar levels, insulin hormone in blood, energy intake and appetite.

You will be reimbursed £30 per study visit up to a maximum of £180 on completion of the study.

In addition, travel expenses and study meals are covered.

‘Yes’. We have medical support throughout the study from Dr. Anne Dornhorst, Consultant Physician.

Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw from the study at any time without giving any reason.

If you would like more information or are interested in taking part in this trial, please contact the study team on

Email: protein@imperial.ac.uk

Telephone: 07522887666