Organic Sunfiber
Also known as: Guar Fiber, Sunfiber, Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum (PHGG)
Overview
Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum (PHGG) is a soluble dietary fiber derived from the enzymatic hydrolysis of guar gum, which consists of galactomannan. It is used extensively in food and nutritional products owing to its neutral taste, color, and odor. PHGG primarily supports digestive health, glycemic control, and promotes satiety. Its unique low viscosity allows it to be incorporated into a wide range of foods and beverages without affecting texture. Research surrounding PHGG is robust, boasting over 100 clinical studies affirming its health benefits. The evidence includes systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials, indicating strong scientific support for its efficacy in enhancing gut health and metabolic functions.
Benefits
PHGG exhibits several evidence-based benefits, especially in the realms of glycemic control and digestive health. Systematic reviews indicate it can significantly lower HbA1c levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with a mean difference recorded at -0.47%, p < 0.001. Furthermore, PHGG has been effective in preventing constipation, improving bowel regularity per multiple studies. Additional secondary benefits include enhancements in cognitive function and sleep efficiency in the elderly population, and increased skin hydration, revealing its versatile applications. Children, particularly those on tube feeding, have also shown tolerance to PHGG, marking its potential for pediatric nutrition.
How it works
PHGG functions primarily as a prebiotic, fostering the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which subsequently produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These SCFAs play a critical role in regulating blood glucose levels, enhancing gut health, and promoting feelings of fullness. By increasing the viscosity of intestinal contents, PHGG slows gastric emptying and reduces glucose and lipid absorption, optimizing metabolic responses and digestive efficiency.
Side effects
PHGG is generally recognized as safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects reported when compared to other dietary fibers. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and gas, observed in less than 5% of subjects. Uncommon side effects are rarer, and no serious or rare adverse effects have been documented. Importantly, there are no known drug interactions or contraindications associated with PHGG. It has been noted to be safe for specific populations including children and older adults, indicating its broad tolerability.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of PHGG varies depending on the intended health benefits. For glycemic control and digestive health, a minimum effective dose of 5-10 grams per day is advisable. Typically, optimal dosages range from 10-20 grams per day, with specific health outcomes targeted. While there is no established maximum safe dosage, doses above 20 grams daily are not commonly studied. It can be taken at any time, although administration with meals is recommended to maximize effects on glycemic levels and satiety. PHGG is versatile in form, available as powders and capsules, and is easily soluble and absorbable within the gastrointestinal tract.
FAQs
Is PHGG safe for everyone?
Yes, PHGG is generally safe and well-tolerated by most individuals, including children and the elderly, with minimal side effects.
When is the best time to take PHGG?
PHGG can be taken at any time, but it is advisable to take it with meals to enhance its benefits for glycemic control.
What benefits should I expect from PHGG?
Users can anticipate improvements in digestive health, glycemic control, and possibly enhancements in cognitive function and skin hydration.
Can PHGG cause stomach issues?
PHGG is typically better tolerated than many other dietary fibers, though some may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1253312/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis compiled data from 14 datasets across 12 studies to conclude that PHGG significantly reduces HbA1c levels in diabetes patients, emphasizing its role in glycemic control.
- https://sunfiber.com/research/ – The research repository on Sunfiber outlines various studies showcasing the health benefits of PHGG, including improved digestive health and glycemic control.
- https://sunfiber.com/partially-hydrolyzed-guar-gum-phgg/ – This resource discusses the characteristics, benefits, and applications of PHGG, supporting its use as a versatile dietary fiber with multiple health benefits.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/82/9/1151/7334529 – This literature review analyzes the effects of dietary fibers, including PHGG, on metabolic syndrome, detailing their efficacy in managing related health conditions.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29566200/ – The randomized controlled trial examines the impact of PHGG on cognitive function and sleep efficiency, revealing significant benefits in the elderly population.
Supplements Containing Organic Sunfiber

Bio.Me Prebio PHGG
Invivo

ElderMune
NOW

Organic Elderberry
Sunwarrior Be Well

Elderberry Syrup
Triquetra Health

Black Elderberry
Triquetra

Elderberry Syrup
Triquetra

Regular Girl Wellness
Regular Girl

FRIENDLY PREBIOTICS
ESSENTIAL STACKS™