This randomized, crossover, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to assess whether acute yacon syrup (Smallanthus sonchifolius) ingestion can modulate postprandial glucose, insulin and triglyceride (TG) responses.

To do so, 40 women (20 normal weight and 20 grade I obese) received a breakfast and a single dose of yacon syrup (40 g, containing 14 g of fructooligosaccharides) or a placebo (40 g). Blood samples were drawn at 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min following ingestion.

Results showed that glucose and insulin concentrations were lowered after yacon syrup intake as compared to placebo at following times: 30min for glucose and 15, 30 and 45 min for insulin. This effect was not evident for triglyceride concentration.

In conclusion, yacon syrup has a postprandial decreasing effect glucose and insulin concentrations in adult women.

Adriano LS, Dionísio AP, Abreu FAP, et al. Yacon syrup reduces postprandial glycemic response to breakfast: A randomized, crossover, double-blind clinical trial. Food Res Int. 2019;126:108682.