Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2025

Publisher

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.

Source Publication

Childhood Obesity

Source ISSN

2153-2138

Abstract

Background:

Prebiotic fiber has been examined as a way to foster gut bacteria less associated with obesity. Tests of prebiotic fiber in reducing obesity have occurred mainly in animals, adults, and Caucasians when the highest obesity rates are in African American and Latinx youth. Response to prebiotic fiber is determined by the pre-existing intestinal microbiota. The type of microbiota varies based on diet and physical activity (PA), so it is important to examine acceptability and response to prebiotic fiber in those most at risk for obesity.

Methods:

This cluster randomized controlled feasibility trial included an online program designed to improve diet and PA along with administration of prebiotic fiber for 12 weeks in 123 4th and 5th grade students where 98% were eligible for free or reduced fee lunch. Of these 56% were male; 71% Latinx; 15% African American; and 14% Other.

Results:

A decrease in body fat (BF) was associated with higher pre-test BF. Lower BMI was associated with a decrease in fecal Tenericutes and an increase in Actinobacteria.

Conclusion:

Prebiotic fiber was evaluated in additional studies. Determining those most responsive to prebiotic fiber can also permit individual recommendations for greater inclusion in usual diet choices.

Comments

Accepted version. Childhood Obesity, Vol. 21, No. 5 (2025): 489-496. DOI. © 2025 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., a division of Sage Publications. Used with permission.

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