Can psyllium fiber improve blood glucose control in type 2 diabetics?

This study examined whether psyllium fiber can improve blood glucose control in type 2 diabetics and patients with prediabetes.

Dietary fiber has numerous health benefits, including reducing appetite and promoting weight loss. Psyllium is a soluble fiber supplement which may improve control of blood glucose (sugar) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) or prediabetes (patients with blood glucose levels higher than normal but not high enough to be T2D). It is possible that adding psyllium to the diet many help to improve blood glucose levels in these patients.

This study aimed to combine results from previous clinical studies to determine whether psyllium fiber can improve blood glucose control.

This study analyzed results from 35 clinical studies. Participants were divided into 3 groups: T2D patients, prediabetics and non-diabetic individuals with normal blood glucose levels. Participants were given psyllium before meals. The HbA1c (average blood glucose over 3 months) and fasting blood glucose levels (FBG, blood glucose levels after 8 or more hours without food or drink) were measured.

FBG levels were lower in T2D patients after 6 or more weeks of treatment (decrease of 37 mg/dL). The HbA1c was also lower in T2D patients (decrease of 0.97%). Patients who had a higher FBG prior to beginning the psyllium diet had the greatest reduction in FBG levels. Control of blood glucose levels was modestly improved in participants with prediabetes. There was no change in blood glucose levels in participants who had normal blood glucose levels.

This study concluded that psyllium may be added to a lifestyle intervention program to improve control of blood glucose levels in T2D patients.

Consult your physician regarding the importance of dietary fiber in improving blood glucose control.