Glucose and lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity in type 1 diabetes: the effect of guar gum.

The effect of guar gum on glucose and lipid metabolism and on body insulin sensitivity was examined in nine type 1 diabetic patients treated with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion. The study was done in a randomized, double-blind, crossover fashion with either guar gum or a placebo added to the usual diet four times per day for 4 wk each. Blood glucose levels after breakfast and lunch and daily insulin requirements were significantly lower during the guar-gum than the placebo diet. After a 4-wk guar-gum supplementation, blood glucose response to a test meal was significantly reduced by guar gum compared with the placebo. Hemoglobin A1 (HbA1) and insulin sensitivity remained unchanged. Serum total cholesterol fell by 21% (p less than 0.025). Thus, guar gum can reduce postprandial blood glucose, insulin requirements, and serum total cholesterol levels in type 1 diabetic patients.