Date of Award
2014
Degree Type
Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review
Degree Name
Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant
Department Chair
John Cavenagh, PhD, PA-C
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine if polydextrose is a beneficial supplement for gastrointestinal health and maintenance of a healthy body weight
STUDY DESIGN: Review of three English language primary randomized controlled studies published from 2000-2011.
DATA SOURCES: All studies were double blind randomized control trials and found using one search+ and EBSCO host through the PCOM library webpage.
OUTCOMES MEASURED: The outcomes measured in each study were based on subjective evaluations of ease of defecation, ease of stool passage, and feelings of fullness.
RESULTS: Only one of the three studies found a clinically significant difference between the control and experimental groups. Ease of stool passage was found to be significantly easier when polydextrose was used as a dietary supplement when compared to placebo.
CONCLUSIONS: The role of polydextrose in maintenance of a healthy body weight remains unclear, as it did not significantly increase feelings of satiety when compared to a placebo. It may be beneficial in gastrointestinal health, as one study found ease of stool passage was significantly increased when polydextrose was added to their diet. However another study found no difference between the control and experimental groups, therefore further research must be done to clearly understand the ability of polydextrose to promote gastrointestinal health.
Recommended Citation
Reilly, Katharine, "Is Polydextrose a Beneficial Supplement for Gastrointestinal Health and Maintenance of a Healthy Body Weight?" (2014). PCOM Physician Assistant Studies Student Scholarship. 189.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/pa_systematic_reviews/189