Fiber for the weight loss win

UF Health Podcasts

In recent years, glucose-lowering drugs — originally prescribed to treat Type 2 diabetes — have gained attention for their ability to kick-start weight loss. Simply starting one of these medications seems to help many shed pounds easily.

But what if similar results could be achieved by increasing your fiber intake?

A recent study indicates this might just be the case. But not any old fiber will do.

University of Arizona researchers observed evidence in mice that specifically, beta-glucan [beta-glue-can], a dietary fiber found in oats and barley, can mirror many of the weight loss benefits of drugs like Ozempic.

These drugs are effective weight loss tools because they mimic a naturally occurring hormone that regulates appetite and blood-sugar levels. Beta-glucan from oats and barley also regulates appetite and blood sugar levels by causing the release of the same hormone into the gut microbiome.

The mice given a beta-glucan supplement showed reductions in weight gain and body fat along with improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. Researchers believe these mice had a boost in energy expenditure, thanks to the beta-glucan.

This study adds to the growing body of research that points to the many benefits of dietary fiber, including constipation prevention, decreased risk of heart disease, and protection against inflammation.

For those considering medications to help them drop pounds: The research indicates that a smaller change, simply eating more beta-glucan rich foods, might be worth a try first. It’s certainly a less-expensive path to choose.

Bowl of oatmeal, anyone?