Abstract
Study was carried out to assess the hypoglycaemic effect of supplementing palm sugar daily for the period of thirteen days and the long- term effect of palm sugar on twelve NIDDM subjects. The effects of withdrawal of palm sugar in these subjects after a period of fifteen days was also assessed plasma glucose were estimated before and after supplementation and at the end of withdrawal period. Information regarding age, sex, family history of diabetes, dietary pattern and life style details was collected from the subjects using on interview schedule. When the subjects were classified on the familial incident of diabetes, 75% did not have a familial incident of diabetes, whereas, 25% had a familial history of diabetes, 16.6% of the subjects were smokers. It is seen that the mean fasting plasma glucose levels have decreased in the values when compared between the initial and the final day of supplementing palm sugar. After 15 days withdrawal period it is seen that the mean fasting plasma glucose levels have raised from 129.5 on the 31st day to 136.6 at the end of withdrawal period. In the same way the mean postprandial plasma glucose levels have raised from 200 on the 31 st day (end of the supplementation period) to 208. 75 at the end of withdrawal period. The supplementing palm sugar for 30 days have shown a glucose lowering effect and when withdrawn for 15 days the glucose levels have raised to a higher level nearer to that tested on the initial day.