Long-term effects of guar gum and microcrystalline cellulose on glycaemic control and serum lipids in type 2 diabetes.

The effects of guar gum (GG) and microcrystalline cellulose (MC) on metabolic control and serum lipids were compared in a double-blind, cross-over trial in 18 poorly controlled Type 2 diabetic patients. There were two 12 week treatment periods separated by a 4 week wash-out period. A significant reduction in fasting BG was found after 6 weeks treatment with GG, but the initial level was regained after further 6 weeks, at the end of the treatment period. No statistically significant change in fasting BG was observed with MC. Serum cholesterol was lowered by 10% during GG treatment. Microcrystalline cellulose had no effect on serum lipids. The results suggest, that during 12 weeks supplementation with guar gum, the improvement in glycemic control was not sustained, but that it might reduce the risk of macrovascular disease in diabetic patients.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes