The effect of cereal B-glucan on body weight and adiposity: A review of efficacy and mechanism of action

The current review examines the totality of the evidence to determine if there exists a relationship between beta-glucan and body weight and adiposity and whether such a relationship is a consistent, causal and plausible one. Observational studies suggest an association between oat (i.e., beta-glucan) intake and reduced body weight, waist circumference and adiposity. High and moderate quality randomized controlled trials that were specifically designed to evaluate the efficacy of beta-glucan on anthropometric outcomes were given the highest weight. Several of these studies indicated a causal relationship between beta-glucan consumption and reduction in body weight, BMI, and at least one measure of body fat within diets that were not calorie-restricted. A review of additional animal and human evidence suggests multiple plausible mechanisms by which beta-glucan may impact satiety perception, gastric emptying, gut hormones, gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids in the complex interplay of appetite and energy regulation.

Automated summary

This review examines the relationship between beta-glucan and body weight and adiposity. Observational studies suggest a link between oat intake and reduced body weight and adiposity. High quality randomized controlled trials indicate a causal relationship between beta-glucan consumption and reduction in body weight and body fat. Animal and human evidence suggests plausible mechanisms for this relationship.