A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Trials on Oat Beta-glucan: Unveiling Its Potential in Preventing Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Diseases
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Chronic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), represent significant global public health challenges, predominantly driven by poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles. Existing interventions, such as pharmacological treatments and specialized diets, often exhibit limited long-term efficacy due to side effects or difficulties with adherence. In recent years, dietary fibers, particularly oat beta-glucan (OBG), have gained attention as potential natural agents for improving metabolic health. Although numerous studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of OBG on lipid profiles, glycemic control, and body composition, a comprehensive review of clinical trial evidence remains lacking. Such a review is critical for elucidating OBG’s role in chronic disease prevention and management, determining optimal dosages, and evaluating long-term health outcomes. In this systematic review, we analyzed randomized controlled trials (RCTs), meta-analyses, and observational studies that investigated the effects of oat beta-glucan (OBG) on obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). We focused on studies reporting changes in key metabolic markers, including LDL cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, and body composition, following OBG consumption. Our findings consistently demonstrated improvements in metabolic markers, particularly LDL cholesterol and glycemic control, with OBG intake. Higher doses of OBG (3–5 g/day) over extended periods were notably associated with significant reductions in visceral fat and waist circumference. However, the effects on body weight and BMI were more modest and varied across studies. This review supports the potential of OBG as a promising natural intervention for chronic disease prevention, particularly in improving lipid profiles and glycemic control. Nevertheless, further research is required to standardize dosage recommendations and assess the long-term benefits of OBG. These findings highlight the role of OBG as part of a comprehensive dietary approach for managing chronic diseases, offering an alternative to or complementing pharmacological interventions. Future studies exploring the combination of OBG with lifestyle modifications, such as exercise, may further enhance its efficacy and provide a more robust public health strategy.