As metabolic syndrome continues to rise—now affecting more than one in four adults—the search for effective, evidence-based nutrition strategies has never been more important. A newly published randomized controlled trial from Zhang et al. (2025) now adds compelling support for one ingredient that has already gained significant scientific interest: Palatinose™ (isomaltulose).
This slow-release carbohydrate is well-known for its low-glycaemic properties. But this new study shows that its benefits reach further than previously understood, influencing the body’s gut hormone response, stabilising blood glucose across meals, and enhancing the well-documented second-meal effect.
A Closer Look at the Study
The research team conducted a rigorous, double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled cross-over study involving 15 adults with clinically diagnosed metabolic syndrome. The participants—average age 62—consumed either 50 g of Palatinose™ or 50 g sucrose, incorporated into a 500 ml citrus drink. This setup allowed the investigators to directly compare how these two carbohydrates affect metabolism.
Two protocols were tested. In the first, participants consumed the test drink with breakfast, followed by several hours of metabolic monitoring before eating a standardized lunch. In the second, the same test drink was given one hour before lunch. These designs allowed researchers to examine how timing influences metabolic responses—an increasingly important question for dietary and product formulation strategies.
Throughout both protocols, blood glucose, insulin, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) and PYY (peptide tyrosine tyrosine) were measured. These gut hormones are especially interesting because they regulate appetite, satiety, glucose metabolism, and insulin secretion—making them central to healthy metabolic function.
What the Researchers Found
The results were striking. When participants consumed Palatinose™, their postprandial glucose levels remained significantly lower compared with sucrose. Instead of a sharp rise in blood sugar, Palatinose™ produced a smoother, more gradual curve—exactly what individuals with metabolic challenges need.
At the same time, Palatinose™ triggered higher levels of GLP-1 and PYY, two hormones that play a central role in blood glucose control and appetite regulation. Elevated GLP-1 helps stimulate insulin release in a more controlled way, while PYY contributes to satiety and reduced subsequent food intake. Together, these hormones create a metabolic environment that is more stable and less prone to fluctuations.
The benefits didn’t end with the first meal. Participants who consumed Palatinose™ also experienced a more favourable response to lunch. Their blood glucose levels rose more slowly and stayed lower, demonstrating a clear second-meal effect—a metabolic advantage where one meal positively affects the body’s response to the next.
Interestingly, the effect was stronger when Palatinose™ was taken three hours before lunch, confirming that timing matters. This has practical implications for real-world consumption, particularly for developers of functional snacks, beverages, and medical nutrition products intended to smooth glycaemic responses throughout the day.
Why This Matters for Industry
For formulation specialists and product developers, these findings strengthen the case for Palatinose™ as a reliable and science-backed ingredient for a wide range of metabolic-health applications. Its ability to deliver slow, steady energy, stimulate beneficial gut hormones, and support glycaemic control across meals makes it especially relevant for:
- products targeting metabolic syndrome,
- blood sugar–friendly foods and beverages,
- satiety or appetite-control applications,
- active and healthy ageing formulations, and
- low-GI or balanced-energy snacks.
With metabolic syndrome now a major public-health challenge, ingredients that support hormonal balance and glycaemic stability are becoming central to next-generation product development.
Expert Commentary
Dr Stephan Theis, Head of Nutrition Science and Communication at BENEO, commented on the findings:
“This study shows how smart sugar choices like Palatinose™ can help the body manage blood sugar not just after eating, but even hours later. It strengthens the evidence for the second-meal effect, resulting from the sustained release of GLP-1 and PYY. The findings highlight the strong potential of functional carbohydrates in supporting long-term metabolic health.”
His perspective aligns with a growing body of literature. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis presented at the IUNS International Congress of Nutrition 2025 also confirmed that Palatinose™ consistently increases GLP-1 release, reinforcing its position as a scientifically validated ingredient.
Regulatory Support Strengthens Market Potential
In addition to its expanding scientific evidence base, Palatinose™ benefits from favourable regulatory positioning.
In the EU, it carries an authorized health claim for blood glucose lowering. In the USA, structure/function claims related to glucose response and GLP-1 stimulation can be used.
This regulatory clarity gives brands a strong foundation for transparent, compliant communication.
Conclusion: A Promising Path Forward for Metabolic Health
The new clinical findings make one message clear: Palatinose™ does more than flatten glucose curves. It supports the body’s hormonal environment, improves satiety, helps control postprandial insulin needs, and enhances the metabolic response across meals.
For adults with metabolic syndrome—and for the manufacturers developing products to support them—this represents a meaningful step forward.
As metabolic health continues to be a global priority, Palatinose™ stands out as a powerful, well-researched ingredient capable of delivering sustained, clinically validated benefits.
