This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv.) muffin supplementation on postprandial glycemic management among obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 102 participants aged 30-60 years were randomly assigned to three groups for 10 weeks: T₀ (50 g wheat muffin with usual diet), T₁ (50 g foxtail millet muffin once daily), and T₂ (50 g foxtail millet muffin twice daily combined with a low glycemic index diet). Anthropometric indices, glycemic markers, lipid profile, and liver function parameters were assessed before and after intervention.
The results demonstrated significant improvements in metabolic outcomes, particularly in the T₂ group. Participants receiving foxtail millet muffins twice daily exhibited substantial reductions in body weight, BMI, fasting blood glucose, and HbA1c levels. Significant improvements were also observed in lipid parameters, including decreased total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, along with increased HDL cholesterol concentrations. Favorable changes in liver function markers further indicated enhanced metabolic health. Sensory evaluation confirmed good acceptability and palatability of the foxtail millet muffins. Overall, the findings suggest that regular consumption of foxtail millet muffins, especially when combined with a low glycemic index diet, is an effective dietary strategy for improving glycemic control, reducing obesity-related risk factors, and promoting metabolic health in obese diabetic patients.