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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

prediabetes syndrome

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