Daily Beef Intake Shows No Effect on Diabetes Risk Factors in Small Trial

A randomized crossover trial conducted by researchers at Indiana University found that consuming 6-7 ounces of beef daily did not change insulin sensitivity or beta-cell function in adults at risk for Type 2 diabetes. Twenty-four participants, seven women and 17 men aged 18-74, each completed two 28-day meal periods separated by a 28-day washout.

5 ounces of cooked beef; in the other they ate the same meals prepared with poultry. Meals included fajitas, burgers, burritos, stew, and stir-fry. Researchers measured fasting insulin, glucagon, and beta-cell response before and after each period. No statistically significant differences appeared between the beef and poultry phases.

The trial was funded by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, which had no involvement in data collection or interpretation, according to the published statement. Kevin Maki, adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, said the results align with prior evidence that beef consumed within a healthy dietary pattern does not adversely affect blood-sugar regulation or inflammation markers.

Indika Edirisinghe, professor of food science and nutrition at Illinois Institute of Technology, stated the findings indicate regular beef intake does not increase metabolic or inflammatory risk factors compared with poultry in a prediabetic population.

The study was released shortly after the Trump administration issued updated dietary guidelines that place animal protein at the top of the food pyramid.