Effect of High-Fiber Diet on Glycemic Control among Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: A Review

Kibibi Muthoni L.

Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Adolescent-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) presents a growing global health burden, characterized by rapid disease progression, early onset of complications, and suboptimal response to pharmacological therapy. High-fiber diets have emerged as promising adjunctive strategies for glycemic management due to their physiological effects on glucose absorption, insulin sensitivity, and gut hormone regulation. This review explored the impact of dietary fiber on glycemic control among adolescents with T2DM, highlighting both mechanistic insights and empirical evidence. Utilizing a narrative review methodology, we synthesized data from observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and clinical guidelines to examine the relationship between fiber intake and glycemic indices such as HbA1c, fasting glucose, insulin resistance, and lipid profiles. The review revealed that fiber, particularly soluble and fermentable types, improves glycemic markers through delayed carbohydrate absorption and modulation of short-chain fatty acids and incretin hormones. Although clinical trials remain limited in pediatric populations, available data supports a moderate but clinically meaningful effect of high-fiber diets on metabolic outcomes. Implementation challenges include limited accessibility, dietary adherence, and sociocultural preferences. Nonetheless, the integration of high-fiber diets into adolescent diabetes care through school programs, caregiver engagement, and culturally tailored interventions offers a viable, sustainable strategy to complement pharmacologic therapy and improve long-term outcomes.

Keywords: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Adolescents, High-Fiber Diet, Glycemic Control, Insulin Sensitivity.

CITE AS: Kibibi Muthoni L. (2025). Effect of High-Fiber Diet on Glycemic Control among Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: A Review. Research Output Journal of Public Health and Medicine 5(3):45-49. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJPHM/2025/534549