Abstract

Insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) has garnered attention for its role in regulating postoperative plasma glucose levels, a crucial factor in patient recovery and overall metabolic health. This review explores the impact and underlying mechanisms of IDF on postoperative glycemic control. IDF, primarily found in whole grains, vegetables, and nuts, is characterized by its resistance to digestion and absorption in the human gastrointestinal tract. Upon consumption, IDF enhances satiety, slows gastric emptying, and modulates the gut microbiota, collectively contributing to improved glycemic regulation. Postoperative patients often experience hyperglycemia due to stress responses and metabolic alterations induced by surgical procedures. Incorporating IDF into their diet can mitigate these effects by stabilizing blood glucose levels, reducing insulin resistance, and decreasing the risk of postoperative complications such as infections and delayed wound healing. This review synthesizes current research findings on the benefits of IDF, highlights clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy, and outlines the biochemical processes involved in its glucose-lowering effects. Further studies are recommended to optimize dietary guidelines and to fully elucidate the therapeutic potential of IDF in postoperative care.