Tapioca Resistant Maltodextrin as a Carbohydrate Source of Oral Nutrition Supplement (ONS) on Metabolic Indicators: A Clinical Trial

Tapioca resistant maltodextrin (TRM) is a novel non-viscous soluble resistant starch that can be utilized in oral nutrition supplements (ONS). This study aims to evaluate acute and long-term metabolic responses and the safe use of ONS containing TRM. This study comprised of two phases: In Phase I, a randomized-cross over control study involving 17 healthy adults was conducted to evaluate three ONS formulations: original (tapioca maltodextrin), TRM15 (15% TRM replacement), and TRM30 (30% TRM replacement). Plasma glucose, serum insulin, and subjective appetite were evaluated postprandially over 180 min. In Phase II, 22 participants consumed one serving/day of ONS for 12 weeks. Blood glucose, insulin, lipid profile, and body composition were evaluated. Gastrointestinal tolerability was evaluated in both the acute and long-term period. During phase I, TRM30 decreased in area under the curve of serum insulin by 33.12%, compared to the original formula (2320.71 ± 570.76 uIU × min/mL vs. 3470.12 ± 531.87 uIU × min/mL, p = 0.043). In Phase II, 12-week TRM30 supplementation decreased HbA1C in participants (from 5.5 ± 0.07% to 5.2 ± 0.07%, p < 0.001), without any significant effect on fasting glucose, insulin, lipid profile, and body composition. The ONS was well-tolerated in both studies. TRM is therefore, a beneficial functional fiber for various food industries.