Why was this study done?

Water-soluble fibers are a well-recognized tool for lowering cholesterol levels. This study was designed to understand the effects of a combination of water-soluble fibers (psyllium, pectin, guar gum, and locust bean gum) when compared to acacia gum alone.

What did the study find?

The mixture of fibers (psyllium, pectin, guar gum, and locust bean gum) produced a 10 percent reduction in total cholesterol and a 14 percent reduction in LDL cholesterol levels, while the acacia gum alone produced no changes in blood lipid levels.


The effect of acacia gum and a water-soluble dietary fiber mixture on blood lipids in humans.

Authors: Jensen CD, Spiller GA, Gates JE, Miller AF, Whittam JH. J Am Coll Nutr. 1993 Apr;12(2):147-54.
PubMed Citation PMID: 8385164.
PDF Manuscript: J Am Coll Nutr, 1993.

Earlier Paper:

Jensen C, et al. The Effect of Acacia Gum Versus a Mixture of Water-Soluble Dietary Fibers on Blood Lipids in Humans. FASEB J, 1992. 6: p. A1654.PFD Abstract: FASEB J, 1992.