PIPER PREBIOTIC FIBER (oat bran powder 5.6 g [28% oat beta-glucan])

3 BENEFITS 

1. Helps maintain blood glucose within normal range
2. Helps lower cholesterol*
3. Promotes regularity

Oats are well known for their ability to lower postprandial glycemia and fasting blood cholesterol, and beta-glucan is considered the primary biologically active component within oats. Beta-glucan is a fermentable soluble fiber that increases viscosity of the food bolus in the digestive tract, slows carbohydrate absorption, and binds bile acids, helping to lower blood cholesterol* and maintain blood glucose levels within normal range. PIPER PREBIOTIC FIBER has a high concentration of beta-glucan (28%), selected for its high molecular weight in order to maximize clinical outcomes.

According to the USDA, fiber intake remains low among US adults, averaging 16 g/day versus a recommendation of 25-38 g/day. High fiber diets are associated with improved blood glucose control and lower risk of heart disease* while also supporting improved laxation.

MECHANISMS OF ACTION

Viscous fibers including beta-glucans may act through several mechanisms to affect lipoprotein metabolism. The main proposed mechanisms relate to trapping of cholesterol and bile acids in the small intestine, resulting in reduced absorption/reabsorption. The net result of these actions is to reduce hepatic cholesterol content, triggering an up-regulation of hepatic LDL receptors that remove apo B-containing lipoproteins from blood, lowering blood cholesterol, particularly LDL-C**.

Beta-glucans lower postprandial blood glucose by increasing viscosity of food within the gastrointestinal tract, delaying gastric emptying, and slowing glucose absorption.

RECOMMENDED PATIENT SELECTION

Patients seeking to use dietary modification to help maintain blood glucose within normal range and/or lower cholesterol*, especially those seeking to support bowel regularity.

DOSING

Adults, mix contents of pack into at least 8 oz of water, beverage, or other food once or twice daily.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

Oat beta-glucan is a well-tolerated type of soluble fiber. In general, when viscous fiber supplements are used, it is important to consume adequate fluid as directed on the product label to avoid intestinal blockage (a rare occurrence). Soluble fiber supplements should be mixed and consumed immediately, before significant thickening has occurred, to avoid choking.

SUGGESTED BEST PRACTICES

Give patient 1 or 2 single-serving packs to evaluate. The patient can purchase the product from piperbio.com. The product does not require a prescription.

*According to US FDA: Soluble fiber from foods such as oat fiber as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood cholesterol. A serving of PIPER PREBIOTIC FIBER supplies 1.5 grams of the 3 grams of soluble fiber from oat fiber necessary per day to have this effect

**Adapted from National Lipid Association Recommendations for Patient-Centered Management of Dyslipidemia: Part 2