A review of the role of soluble fiber in health with specific reference to wheat dextrin

Joanne L. Slavin, V. Savarino, A. Paredes-Diaz, G. Fotopoulos

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

105 Scopus citations

Abstract

Dietary fiber is widely recognized to have a beneficial role in overall health, but only at adequate levels (25-38 g/day for healthy adults). Wheat dextrin in particular is a soluble fiber that can easily be added to the diet and is widely used in the food industry. There is some debate about whether increased intake of soluble fibers leads to health benefits. This paper reviews the evidence regarding the physiological effects and potential health benefits of the addition of soluble dietary fibers, with specific reference to wheat dextrin, based on a search of PubMed. The evidence suggests that soluble fibers help to regulate the digestive system, may increase micronutrient absorption, stabilize blood glucose and lower serum lipids, may prevent several gastrointestinal disorders, and have an accepted role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is concluded that supplementation with soluble fibers (e.g. wheat dextrin) may be useful in individuals at risk of a lower than recommended dietary fiber intake.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1-17
Number of pages17
JournalJournal of International Medical Research
Volume37
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009

Bibliographical note

Copyright:
Copyright 2017 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.

Keywords

  • Health benefits
  • Physiological effects
  • Prebiotics
  • Short-chain fatty acids
  • Soluble fiber
  • Wheat dextrin

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