Effect of a Balanced Mixture of Dietary Fibers on Gastric Emptying, Intestinal Transit and Body Weight

Abstract

Background/Aims: Dietary fibers are frequently included in diets to decrease body weight, but their scarce palatability and the occurrence of meteorism prevent a long-term intake. The aim of this study was to test a mixture of dietary fibers expressly chosen to decrease their negative properties and strengthen their positive effects. Methods: In a series of 10 patients with a slight overweight, the effectiveness of a palatable dietary fibers mixture on gastric emptying and intestinal transit was tested with scintigraphic methods. Then, the effects on body weight and digestive sensations and characteristics of defecations, were evaluated for 4 weeks. Results: The intestinal transit was significantly shortened by the fiber intake, while the gastric emptying was delayed, but not significantly. The body mass index significantly and progressively decreased, whereas the sense of satiation significantly increased. No effect on abdominal bloating was referred, whereas a significant increase in number of defecations with stools of normal consistency was observed. The acceptability of the fiber mixture was good. Conclusions: The present research demonstrated that it is possible to prepare a palatable mixture of dietary fibers that maintains the property of decreasing body weight, favors the sense of satiation and accelerates the intestinal transit, with normalization of the stool consistency without the occurrence of meteorism.

Health effects of an organic diet—consumer experiences in the Netherlands

“…Several studies conclude that organic foods differ from conventional foods in the quantity of antioxidants, fibre and dry matter 8, 19. Fibres stimulate healthy bowel function, give a feeling of satiety after meals and may play a role in weight loss 20, 21. In addition, for the perceived positive changes in the condition of skin, hair and nails, an explanation may be sought in the differences in nutrient composition.…”

Therapeutic Potential of Moringa oleifera Leaves in Chronic Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia: A Review

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Soluble Fiber with High Water-Binding Capacity, Swelling Capacity, and Fermentability Reduces Food Intake by Promoting Satiety Rather Than Satiation in Rats

“…Growing evidence showed that the physicochemical properties of dietary fiber such as viscosity, water-binding capacity, and fermentability may contribute to decrease the food intake in human beings and rodents [3,4,5]. Viscous fibers increase chewing activity and saliva production in the mouth [6], which could result in early satiation and reduced food intake [7,8].…”