By Sean Henahan, Access Excellence

SAN FRANCISCO (6/12/96)- A non-caloric form of sugar called D-tagatose appears to be well tolerated by diabetics and could help in their treatment, reported researchers from the University of Maryland at the national meeting of the American Diabetes Association.

D-tagatose occurs in numerous foods, including several cheeses and yogurt. Initial animal studies showed that D-tagatose contributed no usable calories and therefore produces no weight gain in rats.

An eight-week trial of the substance involving patients with Type II diabetes showed that, in addition to its calorie neutral performance, D-tagatose administration caused a significant reduction in average blood sugar values.

"Although our data are preliminary, the findings suggest that D-tagatose could well serve as an adjunct treatment for Type II diabetics," said Wilber. "Diabetics can look forward to safely enjoying the sugar-like taste and mouth-feel of D-tagatose without worrying about blood sugar levels," said Dr. John Wilber, professor and head of endocrinology, University of Maryland School of Medicine.

New studies are now being designed, and there are plans to conduct safety tests required by the Food and Drug Administration for public marketing of the substance.

"The next set of trials will involve 10 diabetic subjects who will be carefully monitored for a one-year period," said Donner. "At the very least, D-tagatose will be a tasty dietary supplement for Type II diabetics. Ideally, it will be a valuable adjunct treatment," said Dr. Thomas Donner also of the University of Maryland.

Related information on the Internet

New Approaches to Prevention of Diabetes

American Diabetes Association

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease