Effect of two different fibre supplements on blood pressure, arterial stiffness and C-reactive protein in adults with overweight and obesity consumed over 12 months, in a randomised controlled trial

Background: Adequate fibre consumption is associated with reduced risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. This study examined the effects of supplementation with PolyGlycopleX® (PGX®), a complex of 3 polysaccharides (fibre product), on blood pressure, arterial stiffness and C-reactive protein in overweight and obese participants. Methods: In this double-blind 12-month trial, participants were randomised into three groups: control (CTR; rice flour); PGX or a proprietary psyllium product (PSY). Participants added the 5 g supplements to their habitual diet and lifestyle, three times daily before meals. Results: Between-groups analysis shows that systolic blood pressure was significantly lower in the PGX group at 3 months compared to CTR; stiffness index in the PGX group was significantly lower at 3 months compared to CTR. Within-group analysis shows systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as arterial stiffness, to be significantly lower in the PGX group at 3 months compared to baseline. Conclusions: While fibre supplementation may be an effective strategy to reduce chronic disease risk factors without the need for other dietary modifications, the present study suggests that more clinical trials with PGX are needed to clarify whether supplementing the with this product will reduce inflammation and improve vascular health in overweight and obese individuals.Trial registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry: ACTRN12611000415909. Registered 20 April 2011.