The Effects of Novel Resistant Starch Beads on Appetite Control & Energy Intake in Individuals Living with Overweight or Obesity – A Pilot Trial

Abstract

Background: Resistant starch (RS) has been suggested to play a role in appetite control, energy intake, and metabolic health. The novel resistant starch beads used in this study aim to investigate their effects on these parameters in individuals living with overweight or obesity. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impact of RS on appetite sensations, energy intake, and food palatability, as well as its potential effects energy expenditure. Methods: In a randomized, double-blind study, participants were assigned to receive either placebo, 130kcal maltodextrin (MDS) or 130kcal Resistant Starch (RS) supplement dispersed in a 290kcal smoothie at random over the course of three sessions. Appetite and palatability (Visual Analog Scale (VAS)), energy intake (ad libitum buffet), energy expenditure (TEE, VO2, VCO2, RER) and metabolic markers (Insulin, PYY, GLP-1) were assessed at each session. Statistical analyses were conducted using repeated measures ANOVA to determine within- and between-group differences. Results: RS supplementation did not result in significant differences in total energy intake compared to the MD or control placebo groups (p = 0.874). VAS scores for appetite sensations showed no significant effect of RS on desire to eat (p = 0.515), hunger (p = 0.581), fullness (p = 0.680), or prospective food consumption (PFC) (p = 0.681) compared to the MD or control placebo groups. Palatability ratings did not differ significantly between the RS, MD, and control groups (p = 0.282). Additionally, RS did not significantly affect total energy expenditure (p = 0.160), VO2 (p = 0.108), VCO2 (p = 0.379), or respiratory exchange ratio (RER) (p = 0.666) Conclusions: RS supplementation over the course of three sessions did not significantly alter appetite sensations, energy intake, metabolic markers, or palatability compared to both MD and control placebo groups in individuals with overweight or obesity. These findings suggest that RS may not have a substantial impact on these parameters within the context of this study, although further research is needed to explore its potential benefits in different populations and with varying dosages.