GUAR GUM FOR HEALTH

The claimed effect is “impact on blood glucose/glycaemic control/glycaemic response”. The target population is assumed to be the general population. In the context of the proposed wordings, the Panel assumes that the claimed effect refers to long-term maintenance or achievement of normal blood glucose concentrations. The Panel considers that long-term maintenance of normal blood glucose concentrations is a beneficial physiological effect. In weighing the evidence, the Panel took into account that the only study presented investigated longterm effects of guar gum on fasting blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin, the latter being an appropriate measure to assess long-term blood glucose control, and found no effect of guar gum consumption at doses eight times higher than proposed in the conditions of use.On the basis of the data presented, the Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of guar gum and long-term maintenance of normal blood glucose concentrations.Increase in satiety The claimed effect is “satiety”. The target population is assumed to be individuals who need to control their energy intake. In the context of this opinion, satiety is interpreted as the decrease in the motivation to eat after consumption of food leading to a reduction in energy intake. The Panel considers that an increase in satiety might be a beneficial physiological effect.In weighing the evidence, the Panel took into account that no controlled studies assessing the effects of guar gum consumption on appetite ratings and subsequent energy intake have been presented.On the basis of the data presented, the Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has not been established between the consumption of guar gum and increased satiety.Maintenance of normal blood cholesterol concentrations The claimed effect is “cholesterol maintenance”. The target population is assumed to be the general population. In the context of the proposed wordings, the Panel notes that the claimed effect refers to maintenance of normal blood cholesterol concentrations. The Panel considers that maintenance of normal blood cholesterol concentrations is a beneficial physiological effect.On the basis of the data presented, the Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the consumption of guar gum and the reduction of blood cholesterol concentrations. 
In order to bear a claim, foods should provide at least 10 g per day of guar gum in one or more 
servings. The target population is adults.
KEY WORDS
Guar gum, blood glucose, satiety, cholesterol,