Prebiotic Fiber Consumption Decreases Energy Intake in Overweight and Obese Children

Abstract

Excess energy intake is thought to be a major driver of the obesity epidemic and even small disturbances in energy balance may lead to the onset of pediatric obesity. Prebiotic fiber improves appetite regulation and decreases energy intake in obese adults; however, its' therapeutic potential in the obese pediatric population has not been investigated. To determine the effect of prebiotic fiber intake on prospective food consumption and energy intake in the obese pediatric population, 39 male and female overweight and obese children (7‐12y) consumed 1) 8 g/d of prebiotic fiber (1:1 oligofructose:inulin); or 2) equicaloric dose of maltodextrin for 16 wk. Subjective appetite ratings were obtained before and after an ad libitum breakfast buffet at 0 and 16 wk as well as Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) scores. Energy intake was measured at the breakfast buffet and in weighed 3‐day food records. The first of 2 cohorts to complete the study showed a decreased desire to eat following fiber supplementation (p=0.02). There was also a trend for increased fullness and decreased prospective food consumption in the fiber group. CEBQ scores showed increased satiety responsiveness with fiber consumption (p=0.01). The change in energy intake at the final breakfast buffet was 84 kcal lower with fiber versus placebo. In conclusion, long term prebiotic fiber intake may lead to reductions in energy intake that positively impact body weight. Potential causes for decreased energy intake include heightened satiety responsiveness and fullness following fiber consumption. Funded by CIHR, BMO Financial Group,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute.