Soy fiber improves weight loss and lipid profile in overweight and obese adults: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Scope: Studies have suggested that food rich in dietary fiber may facilitate body weight loss, lower total and LDL-cholesterol levels, and reduce body fat. This study examined the effects of soy fiber (SF) on body weight, body composition, and blood lipids in overweight and obese participants.

Methods and results: Thirty-nine overweight and obese college adults (19-39 years of age) were randomly assigned to consume control biscuits or biscuits supplemented with SF for their breakfast for 12 wk (approximately 100 g/day). There were significant differences in changes on body weight, BMI, and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) between the two groups after 12-wk intervention (p < 0.05). The changes of body weight, BMI, waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL-C, and glucose, body fat, and trunk fat of participants in SF group were observed significantly after 12 wk.

Conclusion: SF had favorable effects on body weight, BMI, and fasting LDL-C levels in overweight and obese adults. These effects may be beneficial in antiobesity and the improvement of hyperlipidemia and hypertension (ClinicalTrials.gov registration number-NCT01802840).

Keywords: Body fat; Cholesterol; Obesity; Soy fiber; Weight loss.