Dietary fibers may enhance the release of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) through microbial fermentation and gut signaling, potentially improving feelings of fullness and aiding weight management. There is increasing interest in non-drug methods to support tapering GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy, necessitating a comprehensive review of human studies on this topic.
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A pre-registered scoping review analyzed randomized controlled trials from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central, evaluating the impact of specific dietary fibers on GLP-1 levels and satiety in adults. A total of 1,049 papers were screened, resulting in 49 publications comprising 52 studies with a combined total of 1,085 participants (median sample size per study=19). Most studies were acute interventions (71%) primarily involving Western populations. Among studies that reported increased GLP-1 levels, there was a slight tendency to also report increased satiety, although this was not statistically significant.
Dextrins were highlighted as one of the few fiber categories consistently showing positive effects on both GLP-1 and satiety. Other fibers, such as β-glucans and mannans, were noted for more variable effects, often impacting either satiety or GLP-1 levels but not both simultaneously.
The review emphasizes that, while dextrins show promise for future investigations, many studies are limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and significant variability. Longer-term studies in natural settings, particularly during periods of tapering GLP-1 receptor agonists, are needed to observe microbiota adaptation and to generate robust evidence.
GLP-1 receptor agonists can induce significant weight loss by decreasing appetite and extending satiety. However, many individuals discontinue these treatments for various reasons, highlighting the importance of complementary strategies for long-term weight management and metabolic health. Dietary fibers offer a low-risk means to support ongoing weight management, especially as adjuncts during medication tapering.
Endogenous GLP-1 is released from intestinal L-cells in response to various stimuli, including dietary fibers fermented into short-chain fatty acids. This review categorizes different fiber types based on structural characteristics and evaluates their impact on GLP-1 and satiety.
Despite the extensive range of studies on individual fiber types, a systematic overview has been absent, emphasizing the need for research that clarifies which fibers effectively enhance GLP-1 and satiety in relevant populations. The findings aim to inform larger clinical studies and develop personalized care pathways for obesity management, emphasizing dietary strategies to enhance GLP-1 production and prevent weight regain during the tapering of GLP-1 receptor antagonists.