Dietary Fiber for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background:The evidence of the relationship between fiber intake and control of diabetes is mixed. The purpose of this study was to determine if an increase in dietary fiber affects glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Methods: Randomized studies published from January 1, 1980, to December 31, 2010, that involved an increase in dietary fiber intake as an intervention, evaluated HbA1c and/or fasting blood glucose as an outcome, and used human participants with known type 2 diabetes mellitus were selected for review.Results: Fifteen studies met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The overall mean difference of fiber versus placebo was a reduction of fasting blood glucose of 0.85 mmol/L (95% CI, 0.46 -1.25). Dietary fiber as an intervention also had an effect on HbA1c over placebo, with an overall mean difference of a decrease in HbA1c of 0.26% (95% CI, 0.02-0.51).Conclusion: Overall, an intervention involving fiber supplementation for type 2 diabetes mellitus can reduce fasting blood glucose and HbA1c. This suggests that increasing dietary fiber in the diet of patients with type 2 diabetes is beneficial and should be encouraged as a disease management strategy.

Potentials and Pitfalls on the Use of Passion Fruit By-Products in Drinkable Yogurt: Physicochemical, Technological, Microbiological, and Sensory Aspects

“…Insoluble fiber plays an essential role in promoting regular bowel movement, which prevents constipation [33]. Fiber intake has also been correlated with the management of diabetes and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, weight gain, and colorectal cancer [34][35][36].…”

Long-term effect of dietary fibre intake on glycosylated haemoglobin A1c level and glycaemic control status among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

“…As a biomarker reflecting an individual's average level of blood glucose over past 2-3 months, glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) has been associated with the risk of long-term diabetes complications (5) and used as the main indicator of glycaemic control status among diabetes patients (6) . The American Diabetes Association recommends an HbA1c level below 7?0 % as the goal of glycaemic control for diabetes patients (6) .There is sufficient evidence to support the role of dietary fibre in improving glycaemic control status in diabetes patients (7)(8)(9) . Evidence is also available for its beneficial effect on prevention of diabetes complications.…”

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, impacts on tissue oxidation and dietary management of non-communicable diseases: A review

“…Despite the mixed evidence of the relationship between fiber intake and control of diabetes, Post et al (2012), evaluated this relationship and demonstrated that fiber supplementation for type 2 DM can reduce fasting blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin in patients with type 2 DM. Increasing dietary fiber intake for diets for diabetic mellitus patients could be beneficial for disease management.…”