Effects of inulin fibre Supplementation on Serum Glucose and Lipid Concentration in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Individuals who develop type 2 diabetes increase their chances of developing other health concerns such as cardiovascular disease. Soluble fibre has been shown to have positive effects on serum lipid and glucose levels. Inulin is a type of soluble fibre whose effects on serum lipid and glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes are inconclusive due to the few studies that have been conducted. This study examined the effects of daily intake of 10 g of inulin-based fibre. This study included 36 individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Using a randomized, double-blind design patients consumed 10 g of either an inulin fibre supplement or xylitol as a placebo for 12-weeks. Compliance, expressed as the proportion of supplements not returned, was near 100% for both treatments. Inulin supplementation did not significantly affect fasting concentrations of serum total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, serum triglycerides, serum glucose, or hemoglobin A1c values. These results indicate that daily consumption of 10 g of inulin for 12 weeks does not affect serum lipid and glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.The significant finding(s) of the Study: Short term supplementation of inulin is not effective in changing serum glucose and lipid profiles among those with type 2 diabetes.The study adds: Inulin supplementation on a short term may not be needed or effective in changing serum glucose and lipid profiles among individuals with well managed diabetes.