Possible role for apple juice phenolic, compounds in the acute modification of glucose tolerance and gastrointestinal hormone secretion in humans

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether naturally occurring phenolic compounds in apple juice had any physiological effects on plasma glucose concentrations and circulating gastrointestinal hormone profiles in volunteers. The results show that the consumption of a 25 g glucose load in commercial apple juice compared with that consumed in water has statistically significant effects on plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, GIP and GLP-1 in volunteers (N = 9) which appear to be consistent with delayed intestinal absorption of glucose. The exact mechanisms require further investigation but, tentatively, it is suggested that phloridzin and other polyphenols may be responsible. (C) 2002 Society of Chemical Industry.