Patient satisfaction and experience of a liquid soluble fibre supplement for reported gastro-intestinal (GI) symptoms in a regional adult CF service: Results from an online survey.
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All Authors
Moull, A.
Shimmin, D.
Peckham, D.
LTHT Author
Moull, Alice
Shimmin, Deirdre
Peckham, Daniel
Shimmin, Deirdre
Peckham, Daniel
LTHT Department
Nutrition & Dietetics
Cardio-Respiratory
Respiratory Medicine
Cardio-Respiratory
Respiratory Medicine
Non Medic
Dietitian
Consultant Dietitian
Consultant Dietitian
Publication Date
2025
Item Type
Conference Abstract
Language
Subject
Subject Headings
Abstract
Background: The relief of common GI symptoms in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) is an identified research priority (1). The importance of fibre intake in managing GI symptoms in the general population is well recognised. The recommended daily intake of fibre is 30g; the UK average is 18g/day. Studies have highlighted that many pwCF consume less fibre than healthy controls, possibly due to legacy CF diet (2). Hyfiber® is a low volume fibre supplement (12 g per 30ml) containing 2 sources of soluble fibre: polydextrose and fructooligosaccharides (FOS). Polydextrose increases stool bulk, frequency and improves stool consistency and has prebiotic potential. FOS are indigestible short chain fructans which act as prebiotics and improve stool consistency and frequency.
Objective: Here we assess patient satisfaction with soluble fibre supplements for GI symptoms (March 2023- Oct 2024).
Methods: 38 adults with CF (awCF) with reported GI symptoms at routine dietetic review were sent 14 x 30ml Hyfiber® samples. Online anonymous surveys were sent with questions focussing on diet advice, reported GI symptoms, palatability, treatment duration and perceived efficacy.
Results: 23/38(61%) surveys were returned. Reported GI symptoms included constipation (64%), loose stools (23%), bloating (41%) abdominal pain (27%) and wind (13.6%). 91% reported receiving fibre and fluid dietary advice. 18% made no change, 50% and 41% increased their fruit and vegetable and/or wholegrain intake respectively. Of those prescribed Hyfiber®, 87% completed 1-2 weeks while 65% continued in the longer term. The taste of Hyfiber® was rated as good to excellent by 78%. Eleven subjects reported subjective improvement in constipation, 3 loose stools and 1 bloating. Not all fields were completed.
Conclusion: In this small cohort, soluble fibre supplements provide a convenient, palatable way to support dietary advice and may subjectively improve some GI symptoms, notably constipation.