Recent research has shed light on the potential of ancient grains in managing diabetes. In a thorough analysis, it was found that a whopping 96.5% of studies indicated positive impacts of consuming ancient grains on various markers of diabetes, such as insulin levels, hemoglobin A1c, fasting blood glucose, and cholesterol levels.

Among the ancient grains under scrutiny, oats emerged as a standout contender. They showcased a remarkable ability to notably enhance cholesterol and fasting blood glucose levels in individuals grappling with type 2 diabetes. This finding is in line with previous studies, further solidifying oats' reputation as a diabetes-friendly grain.

Similarly, brown rice exhibited beneficial effects, particularly on HbA1c levels and body mass index (BMI). However, its influence on other blood sugar and cholesterol markers was not as pronounced, echoing findings from earlier research efforts, according to the researchers behind the study.

Interestingly, millets displayed a significant impact on body weight. Nevertheless, the researchers advise caution in interpreting this result due to potential confounding factors present in the studies analyzed.

On the flip side, despite their well-known health benefits, chia seeds did not exhibit a significant influence on diabetes markers in this meta-analysis. This could possibly be attributed to the limited sample sizes involved in the studies.

While the study suggests promising benefits of ancient grains for individuals with type 2 diabetes, it also highlights the need for cautious interpretation due to the variability among the studies analyzed. The authors stress the importance of conducting more standardized and comprehensive research on the role of ancient grains in diabetes management to glean clearer insights.