This study was conducted to determine the association between dietary calcium intake and biomarkers related to lipid and glucose metabolism and inflammation in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes. Seventy-five subjects (41 males, 34 females) were recruited from a group of patients who had visited the department of endocrine medicine. Data on anthropometric characteristics, clinical indices such as hemoglobin A1c and C-reactive protein (CRP), and dietary nutrient intakes were collected. Subjects were divided into three groups on the basis of their calcium intake [<EAR (below estimated average requirement), EAR-RNI (between EAR and recommended nutrient intake), >RNI (above RNI)]. Average calcium intake of <EAR, EAR-RNI, >RNI groups were 462.7±18.7, 649.7±12.8, and 895.7±21.7 mg, respectively. Energy intake was not different among groups but intakes of protein, total and saturated fatty acids were significantly higher in >RNI group than <EAR group. Analysis of covariance revealed that HDL cholesterol level was significantly higher in EAR-RNI group, as compared to <EAR group after adjustment with confounders such as age, sex, BMI and energy intake (p<0.05). Levels of CRP and homeostasis model assessment 2-insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR) were significantly lower in EAR-RNI group. Total cholesterol level was higher in EAR-RNI and >RNI groups, although within the normal range. Our results suggest that dietary calcium intake may influence the levels of HDL-cholesterol, CRP and HOMA2-IR and subsequently, help management/treatment of type 2 diabetes patients.

• 정혜연(숭의여자대학교 식품영양과) | Hae-Yun Chung Corresponding author