Dietary fiber, gut peptides, and adipocytokines

J Med Food. 2012 Mar;15(3):223-30. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2011.0072. Epub 2011 Dec 19.

Abstract

The consumption of dietary fiber (DF) has increased since it was related to the prevention of a range of illnesses and pathological conditions. DF can modify some gut hormones that regulate satiety and energy intake, thus also affecting lipid metabolism and energy expenditure. Among these gut hormones are ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide 1, peptide YY, and cholecystokinin. Adipose tissue is known to express and secrete a variety of products known as "adipocytokines," which are also affected by DF. Some of the most relevant adipocytokines include adiponectin, leptin, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6. The release of adipocytokines, by either adipocytes or macrophage-infiltrated adipose tissue, leads to a chronic subinflammatory state that could play a central role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, therefore increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease associated with obesity. DF modulation of these molecules could also have positive effects on obesity, insulin resistance, and hyperlipidemia. This review is focused on the effects of DF on the above-mentioned gut peptides and adipocytokines.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adipokines / metabolism*
  • Adipose Tissue, White / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Dietary Fiber / administration & dosage*
  • Down-Regulation*
  • Gastric Mucosa / metabolism
  • Gastrointestinal Hormones / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Mucosa / metabolism
  • Peptide Hormones / metabolism*
  • Up-Regulation*

Substances

  • Adipokines
  • Dietary Fiber
  • Gastrointestinal Hormones
  • Peptide Hormones