LOWERING EFFECTS OF A PREPARATION CONTAINING FIBERS AND LACTULOSE ON GLUCOSE AND INSULIN LEVELS IN OBESITY

The short-term metabolic effects of a dietary supplementation of biscu its containing raw fibre and lactulose (Fiberlac(R), Bracco) on circad ian glucose, insulin and amino acid concentrations were studied in 10 obese patients in a crossover comparison. The biscuits (3 at breakfast , 4 at lunch and 4 at evening meal; approximately 10 g total dietary f ibre, 2 g raw fibre, 8.25 g lactulose) were randomly substituted for a n equicaloric part of a diet containing 20-22 kcal per kg ideal body w eight under strict medical surveillance. Blood glucose in response to meal, as well as mean concentration throughout the day was lower durin g fibre supplementation. Also mean insulin was halved, and the insulin response to meals was blunted by 100-250 pmol/L. The plasma amino aci d response to meals was increased, possibly in relation to decreased i nsulinemia. The data show a remarkable metabolic effect of the prepara tion in obese patients, without any further dietary restriction. The c linical effects and compliance remain to be determined in long-term st udies, and in other states of glucose-intolerance, e.g. liver cirrhosi s.