Abstract
OBJECTIVES It is unclear whether addition of soluble fiber to a low-calorie diet potentializes weight loss and amelioration of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of oat bran on prevalence of MetS and associated disorders. METHODS A pragmatic, randomized controlled, 6-wk nutritional trial was carried out with 154 outpatients (mean age 47.6 ± 12.6 y of age). The intervention group (n = 83) received a low-calorie diet plus 40 g/d of oat bran; the control group (n = 71) received a low-calorie diet only. MetS parameters and prevalence were calculated and compared (using two-tailed statistical tests) before and after follow-up. RESULTS After follow-up, a significant but similar reduction was observed in MetS prevalence (40% reduction, 63% and 64.8% prevalence in intervention and control groups, respectively; P = 0.226), body mass index, body weight, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, triacylglycerides, and blood glucose levels in both groups (P < 0.05). Mean high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was reduced in the intervention group (43.6 ± 9.6 to 41.2 ± 9.5 mg/dL; P = 0.025), but not in the control group (44.6 ± 10.5 to 44.5 ± 12.1 mg/dL; P = 0.890). There was no significant difference in any of the variables between the groups, although the P-value for HDL-C was almost significant (P = 0.078). Calorie and dietetic fiber intake during the 6-wk period were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS Daily consumption of oat bran did not potentialize the beneficial effects of a traditional low-calorie diet on the prevalence of MetS and associated disorders. Additionally, it reduced HDL-C.
