The Glycemic and Insulinemic Response to Different Infant Formula

Background: Commercial infant formulae attempt to imitate human milk unique composition which contribute to its distinctive influence on glycemic and insulinemic responds. However lactose and cow`s milk protein are often replaced in infant formulae due to medical reasons or personal preference. Postprandial glycemia and insulinemia may contribute to metabolic programing in the first years of life. The aim of the present study was to determine the glycemic and insulinemic stimuli of various infant formulas available in Israel.

Methods: We conducted a prospective, randomized, double-blind, three-arms study with cross-over. Each participant drank a total of 3 different infant formulae (cow`s milk protein based, soy protein based, and lactose free) in a random order. Blood samples for glucose and insulin levels were taken at regular interval over 2 hours. Glycemic and insulinemic index, maximal glucose and insulin levels were determined and compared between the 3 groups. Reference values of blood glucose and insulin were determined for each participant by using a concentrated glucose solution.

Result: Sixteen healthy adult volunteers were enrolled (7 female), mean age 33.2±2.7. No significant difference was found in glycemic index between three formula groups. However, maximal glucose levels were significantly higher in soy- and lactose free- formulas compared to cow`s milk formula (table 1). No similarity was shown in insulin levels.

Conclusion: Standard formula, lactose free formula and soy based formula elicit similar glycemic indexes. However, soy based and lactose free formulas produced a significantly higher increase in post-prandial glucose levels. The implication of our preliminary results is yet to be determined.