Evaluating the efficacy of I-fiber pearl on reducing body fat accumulation in obese females: a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial

Authors

• Hung-Hsuan Kuo, Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
• Chia-Chun Chen, Itsway Biotech Inc., Taipei, Taiwan
• Ching-Chang Cho, Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
• Chun-Tse Tsai, Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
• Shiuan-Chih Chen, Institute of Medicine and School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
• Chin-Lin Hsu, Department of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, TaiwanFollow

Keywords

I-fiber pearl; Inulin; Obesity management; Randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Obesity is a growing public health challenge worldwide, strongly linked to metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Inulin, a soluble, fermentable fiber derived mainly from Jerusalem artichoke and chicory, has been reported to improve weight management and metabolic health. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects of inulin-enriched tapioca pearls (I-fiber pearl) on body composition and lipid parameters in obese women. Methods: Fifty women (BMI ≥ 27 or waist > 80 cm; age 20–50 years) were randomized to receive either I-fiber pearl or placebo (2 packs/day, 100 g/pack) for 12 weeks. Anthropometric indices, body composition, and blood biochemistry were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Results: After 12 weeks, the I-fiber group showed significant reductions in body weight, BMI, body fat mass, visceral fat, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. I-fiber pearl improved body composition and lipid profiles, suggesting potential benefits as a functional supplement for obesity management.

Abstract Image

Recommended Citation

Kuo, Hung-Hsuan; Chen, Chia-Chun; Cho, Ching-Chang; Tsai, Chun-Tse; Chen, Shiuan-Chih; and Hsu, Chin-Lin (2026) "Evaluating the efficacy of I-fiber pearl on reducing body fat accumulation in obese females: a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial," Journal of Food and Drug Analysis: Vol. 34 : Iss. 2 , Article 5.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.38212/2224-6614.3593

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