Fiber fix? prebiotic shows promise for prediabetes in small study
NCT ID NCT02346838
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether taking a prebiotic fiber called inulin every day for 6 weeks could improve how the body handles sugar and fat in prediabetic adults. Twenty-two participants ate a controlled diet and either got inulin or a placebo. Researchers measured insulin sensitivity, metabolic flexibility, and heart health markers before and after the treatment.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Inulin (a type of dietary fiber/prebiotic)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple dietary supplement to help manage prediabetes and reduce risk of type 2 diabetes.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early-stage study with only 22 participants. Results may not apply to everyone, and the effect may be modest or not clinically significant.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for PREDIABETES are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Virginia Polytechnic and State University
Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- A new rice could tame blood sugar spikes in prediabetes
- Could everyday supplements turn back the clock on aging?
- Can a single pill tackle both fatty liver and diabetes?
- Does when you eat carbs and protein reshape blood sugar control?
- Could a daily glass of milk help ward off type 2 diabetes?
- Can one avocado a day sharpen the aging brain?