High carbohydrate, high fiber diets may increase peripheral insulin sensitivity and glucose assimilation in healthy adults.

This study examined the effects of high carbohydrate, high fiber (HCF) diets on peripheral insulin sensitivity in healthy adults. 12 elderly and young adult subjects were placed on HCF diets for 21 – 28 days. Their hepatic glucose output (HGO) and serum glucose, insulin, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were measured before and after meals each day during this period.

Researchers discovered that HCF diets lowered the fasting concentrations of serum glucose, cholesterol, and insulin in both young and elderly subjects. However, HCF diets had no effect on their hepatic glucose output and serum triglyceride levels. Therefore, HCF diets may increase peripheral sensitivity to insulin, thereby enhancing glucose uptake and energy production by the body cells.