A small 8-week study suggests that bitter almond gum may improve various metabolic markers in women with type 2 diabetes, highlighting its potential as a complementary dietary intervention amid growing research on plant-based fibres and metabolic health.
A small randomised trial published by Nature suggests bitter almond gum may help improve several metabolic markers in women with type 2 diabetes, adding to growing interest in the plant-based fibre as a functional food. In the 8-week study, 44 women received either 5 g a day of bitter almond gum or maltodextrin placebo, and the researchers reported lower insulin, lipopolysaccharide, pentosidine and oxidative stress scores alongside higher antioxidant measures in the treatment group.
The findings fit with earlier research suggesting bitter almond gum has prebiotic and antioxidant properties. A separate PubMed-indexed study found that the gum’s soluble fraction and ultrasound-treated forms showed stronger antioxidant activity, better water solubility and greater fermentation-related effects, while another paper concluded that ultrasound treatment improved the ingredient’s biological profile for use in functional foods.
The new trial also sits within a broader body of work on almonds and diabetes. Previous studies have linked almond consumption with better glycaemic control and improved lipid profiles, and a later systematic review found evidence that almond intake can reduce malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress. Taken together, the research does not prove bitter almond gum is a stand-alone treatment, but it does suggest the ingredient may have a role alongside standard diabetes care.
That said, the evidence remains early and limited. The Nature study involved only 44 women, ran for 8 weeks and did not assess long-term clinical outcomes, which means larger and longer trials will be needed before bitter almond gum can be considered a reliable dietary therapy for type 2 diabetes.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
