Consumption of dietary soluble fibers has been associated with health benefits such as reduced lipid levels, lower blood pressure, improved blood glucose control, weight loss, improved immune function, and reduced inflammation. Many of these health benefits relate to a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In this paper, we have reviewed recent studies on the hypocholesterolemic effects of dietary soluble fibers as well as fiber-rich foods. Findings include the following: (a) consumption of water-soluble, viscous-forming fibers can reduce total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by about 5-10 %; (b) minimal changes of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol or triglyceride levels were observed; (c) cholesterol-lowering properties of soluble fibers depend on their physical and chemical properties; and (d) medium to high molecular weight fibers are more effective in reducing lipid levels. Hypocholesterolemic benefits were also observed with some fiber-rich foods, such as whole oats, whole barley, legumes, peas, beans, flax seeds, apples, and citrus foods.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a multifactorial metabolic disorder. It is characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and a relative insulin secretion defect. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus has risen worldwide in large part because of an increase in obesity and sedentary lifestyles. The underlying pathophysiology and complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus are still being elucidated. Recent advances in diabetes research have helped us to gain a better understanding about insulin resistance and insulin secretion defects. The evolving understanding about the influence of the incretin effect, insulin signal transduction, adipose tissue, intra-islet cell communication, and inflammation is changing the way in which we view type 2 diabetes mellitus. This new understanding will eventually provide us with new treatment approaches to help patients who have type 2 diabetes mellitus. This article gives a review of the current and emerging concepts of the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
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