Pea protein preload improves postprandial glucose response in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, controlled pilot study

Purpose Protein intake has shown benefits to mitigate postprandial hyperglycaemic excursions. In particular, whey protein has demonstrated strong potential for postprandial glucose management, and more recent findings highlighted evidence for increased efficacy of whey protein when consumed before, rather than with a carbohydrate-rich meal. Given the strong interest yet limited evidence on plant-based protein, the present study compared the potential of pea protein consumed prior to carbohydrates, on postprandial glucose as well as satiety and blood pressure (BP).

Methods In an acute randomized cross-over trial, ten healthy adults consumed a pea protein drink either before (PrePP) or with (PP) a standard carbohydrate-rich meal, compared with a control meal (CHO). Continuous glucose monitoring, satiety levels and BP were recorded over 180 min post-meal consumption.

Results Both PP and PrePP significantly reduced postprandial glucose excursion (0.46 vs. 1.125 mmol/L), compared to CHO (1.89 mmol/L). The effect was more pronounced with PrePP, exhibiting a delayed glucose response and a blunted peak beyond 60 min. Systolic BP remained unchanged, whereas both PP and PrePP significantly reduced diastolic BP compared to CHO (− 4.2 mmHg at 150 min, p < 0.05; −9.2 mmHg at 180 min, p < 0.01, respectively). PP significantly increased fullness and reduced hunger after 60 and 180 min, respectively, whereas PrePP significantly decreased hunger after 60 min of carbohydrate consumption.

Conclusion Given the enhanced efficacy in lowering postprandial glucose when consumed before carbohydrates, pea protein pre-meal consumption could be considered as part of a dietary strategy to manage postprandial glycaemia well comparable to whey protein.