The auxiliary effect of L-leucine on blood glucose regulation in diabetic patients

L-leucine exerts a mild auxiliary effect on blood glucose regulation in diabetic patients, primarily by improving insulin sensitivity and regulating glucose metabolic pathways. However, it cannot replace drug therapy and should be supplemented rationally on the basis of diet and exercise.

I. Core Mechanisms of Auxiliary Blood Glucose Regulation

1. Enhancing Insulin Sensitivity

L-leucine activates the AMPK signaling pathway, promoting glucose uptake and utilization in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, thereby reducing insulin resistance. Clinical studies show that after supplementing L-leucine, diabetic patients experience a 15%–20% increase in insulin-mediated glucose disposal rate, reducing blood glucose fluctuations.

2. Inhibiting Hepatic Gluconeogenesis

By regulating the activity of key gluconeogenic enzymes in the liver (e.g., phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase), it reduces the conversion of non-carbohydrates to glucose, lowering fasting blood glucose levels.

3. Regulating Intestinal Flora and Gut Hormones

It promotes the proliferation of beneficial intestinal bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium) and enhances intestinal barrier function. Simultaneously, it stimulates the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), delaying gastric emptying and reducing postprandial blood glucose peaks.

II. Applicable Scenarios and Supplementation Protocols

1. Recommended Dosage and Timing

Daily Dosage: 1–3 grams, divided into 2 doses (0.5–1.5 grams each after breakfast and dinner) to avoid metabolic burden from single excessive intake.

Supplementation Form: Prioritize pure L-leucine preparations or products with a balanced BCAA ratio (leucine:isoleucine:valine = 2:1:1), avoiding sugar-raising ingredients such as sucrose and maltodextrin.

2. Suitable Populations

Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Particularly suitable for those with comorbid insulin resistance and elevated postprandial blood glucose; the auxiliary effect is weaker in type 1 diabetic patients.

Prediabetic Individuals: Can be used as a preventive intervention to delay further blood glucose elevation.

III. Efficacy Characteristics and Precautions

1. Efficacy Limitations

Mild Auxiliary Effect: Single supplementation only reduces glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by 0.3%–0.5%. Significant blood glucose control requires combination with hypoglycemic drugs, diet management, and exercise.

Obvious Individual Differences: The effect is more pronounced in patients with overweight or dyslipidemia; caution is required for those with impaired renal function.

2. Safety Precautions

Avoid Excessive Supplementation: Daily dosage exceeding 5 grams may cause branched-chain amino acid metabolic imbalance, increase renal burden, and even affect blood glucose stability.

Monitor Blood Glucose Changes: In the initial stage of supplementation, monitor fasting and postprandial blood glucose 2–3 times a week. Adjust the dosage based on blood glucose levels to avoid hypoglycemia caused by superimposition with hypoglycemic drugs.

Contraindications for Special Populations: Prohibited for type 1 diabetic patients and those with diabetic ketoacidosis; patients with liver or kidney dysfunction should use under medical guidance.

IV. Synergistic Optimization Suggestions

Pair with Dietary Fiber: Take with fiber-rich foods such as oats and celery to delay L-leucine absorption and enhance blood glucose control effects.

Combine with Resistance Training: Perform strength training (e.g., dumbbells, yoga) 2–3 times a week to strengthen L-leucine's effect on improving insulin sensitivity.

Avoid High-Sugar Foods: Control intake of refined sugars and high-GI foods during supplementation, as they may offset the auxiliary blood glucose regulation effect.