Dietary fiber

Suggested

2 studies · 1 recommendation

Last updated: February 25, 2026

Suggested2 studies

Higher dietary fiber intake linked to 15-30% lower type 2 diabetes risk

A large case-cohort study across eight European countries (11,559 diabetes cases, 15,258 subcohort participants, 10.8 years follow-up) found that the highest quartile of fiber intake reduced diabetes risk by 18% (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69–0.97). A meta-analysis of 19 cohort studies confirmed a 9% risk reduction per 10 g/day increase in total fiber (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.87–0.96). An umbrella review of 185 prospective studies encompassing nearly 135 million person-years demonstrated a 15-30% decrease in type 2 diabetes incidence among the highest fiber consumers. Dose-response analysis identified 25-29 g/day as the optimal intake threshold, with potential additional benefit at higher levels. Evidence certainty was graded moderate under the GRADE framework, with body weight partially mediating the protective effect.

Evidence

Carbohydrate quality and human health:a series of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Authors: Cummings, John, Mann, Jim, Mete, Evelyn, Reynolds, Andrew, Te Morenga, Lisa, Winter, Nicola

Published: February 2, 2019

Analysis of 185 prospective studies with nearly 135 million person-years demonstrated a 15-30% decrease in type 2 diabetes incidence comparing highest versus lowest dietary fibre consumers. Dose-response curves identified 25-29g/day as the threshold for greatest risk reduction, with evidence suggesting higher intakes could confer even greater protection. Striking dose-response evidence supported a potentially causal relationship. Evidence certainty was graded as moderate under the GRADE framework. Robustness was confirmed through sensitivity analyses, meta-regression, dose-response testing, and subgroup analyses using random-effects models.

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Dietary fibre and incidence of type 2 diabetes in eight European countries: the EPIC-InterAct Study and a meta-analysis of prospective studies.

Authors: InterAct Consortium

Published: July 1, 2015

In the EPIC-InterAct case-cohort study (11,559 diabetes cases, 15,258 subcohort participants, 10.8 years follow-up across eight European countries), highest vs. lowest quartile of dietary fiber intake yielded HR 0.82 (95% CI 0.69–0.97) after adjustment for lifestyle and dietary factors. A meta-analysis of 19 cohort studies confirmed this association with a summary RR of 0.91 (95% CI 0.87–0.96) per 10 g/day increase in total fiber intake. The association was partially attenuated after BMI adjustment, suggesting body weight mediates part of the protective effect.

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