Intake of non-starch polysaccharide (dietary fibre) in edentulous and dentate persons: an observational study.

Compromised masticatory efficiency places edentulous persons at risk of consuming a diet low in non-starch polysaccharide (NSP) ('dietary fibre'). No study has quantified NSP intake in edentulous people using a valid and reliable method of dietary assessment. The aim of this study was to provide quantitative data on NSP intake of edentulous persons, together with information on its dietary sources. Using the dietary history method, habitual intake of NSP was compared between edentulous persons (n = 30) and dentate persons (n = 30) between the ages of 40 and 60. Groups were matched for sex and social class. The edentulous group had a median NSP intake of 73 (31-211) g/week. This was significantly lower than that of the dentate group of 106 (25-225) g/week (P = 0.014). Neither group completely met current UK guidelines. NSP intake of 56% (n = 17) of the edentulous group was below 84 g/week, whilst 17% (n = 5) of the dentate group was below this figure--a level of intake below which increased occurrence of gastrointestinal complaints has been observed. The dentate group obtained significantly more NSP from all rich sources, including wholemeal breads, cereals, vegetables and fruit. Depending on their form and preparation, such foods are not necessarily difficult to chew. Specific advice on food selection is required to ensure the edentulous patient has an adequate intake of NSP. Education of the dentist for this purpose is of paramount importance.