New Strategies for Dietary Nutrients on Glucose Homeostasis Regulation: in the View of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Secretion

Background Diabetes and its complications are considered one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Natural or synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretagogues have emerged as an effective pharmacologic approach to managing type 2 diabetes (T2D). These agents regulate insulin and blood glucose levels and contribute to weight management by stimulating the efficient secretion of GLP-1 in the gut. Recently, food-derived bioactive compounds have been recognized as potential GLP-1 secretagogues, offering dietary strategies for blood glucose management. Scope and approach This review summarizes the origin and mechanism of action of GLP-1 secretagogues derived from natural foods and their derivatives. In addition, current limitations and future research directions for validating their efficacy and determining their application in the management of T2D and obesity are discussed. Key findings and conclusions To date, various natural compounds—including proteins and their derivatives, carbohydrates, fatty acids, and polyphenols—have been shown to stimulate GLP-1 secretion. Despite varying in their efficacy and mechanisms of action, the positive results from in vitro and animal studies warrant further research to assess their potential as functional food components for blood glucose regulation.