Water-Soluble Guar Gum and Cholesterol Lowering

Why was this study done?

Cholesterol lowering can be accomplished through non-pharmacological means (diet, exercise, weight loss) and dietary fiber plays an important role in a cholesterol-lowering plan. This study was designed to investigate the effects of both solid and liquid guar gum on plasma lipid levels (cholesterol, HDL, LDL) in people with moderately high cholesterol.

What did the study find?

Following four weeks of supplementation, significant reduction in LDL and total cholesterol were observed in both groups, although a preference for the drinkable (liquid) guar gum was noted.

Effects of solid and liquid guar gum on plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations in moderate hypercholesterolemia.
Authors: Superko HR, Haskell WL, Sawrey-Kubicek L, Farquhar JW. Am J Cardiol. 1988 Jul 1;62(1):51-5.
PubMed Citation PMID: 2837895.
PDF Manuscript: Am J Cardiol, 1988.