- Health advice
- May 27, 2026
Reviewed by Christina Hanley (Bachelor of Nutritional Medicine) · Mr Vitamins Health Team · Updated 2025
Sugarcane fibre is a new type of fibre supplement made in Australia. Makers take the fibrous part of the sugarcane plant and remove almost all of the sugar, leaving a fibre-rich powder with no added sugar.
It does more than older fibre supplements. It has 73-86% insoluble fibre, plus natural antioxidants and minerals that your body can absorb, and psyllium husk and wheat dextrin do not offer these extras.[4]
At Mr Vitamins, we looked closely at the Australian research behind this ingredient, including studies from Monash University, Macquarie University, and the University of Queensland. Below we cover what sugarcane fibre is, how it works, and whether Live More You Sugarcane Fibre is worth adding to your routine.
What Is Sugarcane Fibre?
Most people know sugarcane as the plant that makes sugar. But once workers squeeze the juice out, what is left is a fibrous material with both soluble and insoluble fibre.
Here is the key thing: sugarcane fibre has no sugar. The sweet part is removed, leaving the fibre, the plant cell walls, natural antioxidants, and trace minerals.[1]
Think of it like an orange. The juice is mostly sugar and water, but the white pith is pure fibre, and sugarcane fibre is like that pith.
Isolated fibre supplements come from one extracted compound. Sugarcane fibre keeps the whole plant, including cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, polyphenols, and minerals, and research shows this whole-plant mix works better in the gut.[2]
Sugarcane fibre has two types of fibre working together:
- Soluble fibre - dissolves in water and forms a gel. It slows digestion and helps balance blood sugar and cholesterol.
- Insoluble fibre - does not dissolve. It adds bulk to your stool and helps keep you regular.
Most Australians get only about half the fibre they need each day. The target is 25g a day for women and 30g a day for men.[3]
Live More You Sugarcane Fibre at a Glance
Live More You Sugarcane Fibre 200g
Whole-plant prebiotic dietary fibre from Australian-grown sugarcane. Unflavoured powder. Low FODMAP certified. Gluten free. No additives, no fillers, no sugar.
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Quick Comparison - Cost Per Serve
Live More You Sugarcane Fibre comes in a 200g powder tub. The table below shows how it compares on cost and key features, and the price shown is approximate, so check the Mr Vitamins product page for the current price.
| Product | Format | Serving Size | Serves per Pack | TGA Status | Approx. Cost per Serve | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live More You Sugarcane Fibre 200g | Powder | ~5g (1 tsp) | ~40 serves | FSANZ Food Standard | ~$1.25 per serve* | Gut health, bowel regularity, IBS support, microbiome |
*Based on RRP $49.95 for 200g at approximately 40 serves (5g per serve). Cost per serve ~$1.25. Price may vary - confirm current price at Mr Vitamins. Regulated as a food product under Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).
Live More You Nutraceuticals is a brand made by qualified Naturopaths, Nutritionists and Health Professionals at Mr Vitamins. Every product fills a real gap in a daily routine, and each one is tested for purity and made without artificial fillers.
What Is Actually in Live More You Sugarcane Fibre?
Open the tub and the ingredient list is simple: Sugarcane Fibre (Saccharum officinarum). That is it. No binders, no fillers, no flavours, and no hidden sugar.
That one ingredient does a lot of work. Research from Macquarie University, published in Food Chemistry, found sugarcane fibre has a profile that sets it apart from psyllium husk and wheat dextrin.[4]
The three fibre components inside
Bonus: natural minerals your body can actually absorb
Macquarie University research also found that sugarcane fibre has bioaccessible trace minerals, meaning your body can release and absorb them during digestion. Psyllium husk and wheat dextrin do not have these.[4]
| Mineral | Amount (per 100g) | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium | 0.67-2.54 mg | Supports insulin signalling and blood sugar balance |
| Manganese | 1.07-2.34 mg | Antioxidant support; bone and metabolism health |
| Potassium | Bioaccessible | Heart health, fluid balance, muscle function |
| Magnesium | Bioaccessible | Involved in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body |
| Zinc | Bioaccessible | Immunity, wound healing, cell growth |
Sugarcane fibre has natural antioxidant compounds, including ones related to chlorogenic and caffeic acid. A University of Queensland study found it had much higher antioxidant power than psyllium husk or wheat dextrin.[7]
How It Is Made - and Why That Matters
Not all sugarcane fibre supplements are equal. How the fibre is processed makes a big difference to what you actually get.
Traditional bagasse, the fibrous waste from sugar mills, gets exposed to very high heat during energy recovery. This damages the plant cell walls and destroys heat-sensitive antioxidants.[8]
Premium Australian sugarcane fibre like Live More You uses "virgin processing" instead. This is a chemical-free, low-heat method that keeps the full nutritional profile intact.
When comparing sugarcane fibre supplements, look for low-heat or chemical-free processing and Australian-grown cane. Live More You Sugarcane Fibre is regulated under the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) code, which sets strict rules for safety and labelling.[9]
Health Benefits of Sugarcane Fibre
1. It helps you go to the bathroom more regularly
This is the benefit most people notice first. The high insoluble fibre adds bulk to your stool and draws in water, making it easier to pass, often within the first week.
A Monash University trial found that IBS patients using sugarcane fibre had stool output around 50% higher than usual. Their stool water content and transit time also improved.[10]
2. It feeds the good bacteria in your gut
Sugarcane fibre acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your large intestine. As they ferment it, these bacteria make short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which feeds your colon cells and may lower gut inflammation.[11]
Sugarcane fibre ferments slowly and evenly through the colon. This gives your gut bacteria a steady fuel source without the sudden gas burst that causes bloating with fast-fermenting fibres like inulin.
A 2018 study in Frontiers in Microbiology found whole-plant sugarcane fibre raised beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacteriaceae, while lowering harmful bacteria. These effects were stronger than with psyllium husk or wheat dextrin.[7]
3. It helps keep blood sugar steadier after meals
The soluble fibre forms a gel in your small intestine that slows carb absorption. This flattens the blood sugar spike you would get after eating.[12]
Sugarcane fibre also has natural chromium, a mineral that helps with insulin signalling.[4]
4. It supports healthy cholesterol levels
Better Health Victoria, a Victorian Government health resource, confirms soluble fibre lowers total blood cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol.[13] Soluble fibre binds to bile acids in the gut, and your liver draws more cholesterol from your blood to replace them, lowering it over time.
5. It helps you feel fuller for longer
Soluble fibre slows stomach emptying and triggers fullness hormones. This can reduce snacking and support a healthy weight as part of a balanced diet.[14]
Sugarcane Fibre vs Psyllium Husk: Which Is Better?
Psyllium husk has been the go-to fibre supplement for decades, and it is well researched. But it has limits that sugarcane fibre does not, based on a Macquarie University study that tested both directly.[4]
- Fibre type: Insoluble-dominant (73-86%)
- Prebiotic action: Yes - moderate, steady fermentation
- Natural antioxidants: Yes - polyphenols confirmed
- Bioaccessible minerals: Yes - chromium, magnesium, zinc
- IBS tested: Yes - Monash University clinical trial
- Low FODMAP: Yes - certified
- Texture: Neutral, smooth powder
- LDL cholesterol: Moderate support
- Fibre type: Soluble-dominant (~70% soluble)
- Prebiotic action: Minimal - mainly bulking
- Natural antioxidants: No
- Bioaccessible minerals: No
- IBS tested: Generally yes
- Low FODMAP: Yes
- Texture: Thickens quickly, gluey
- LDL cholesterol: Strong - well documented
| Feature | Sugarcane Fibre | Psyllium Husk |
|---|---|---|
| Prebiotic action | Yes - moderate, steady | Minimal |
| Natural antioxidants | Yes - polyphenols confirmed | No |
| Bioaccessible minerals | Yes - chromium, magnesium, zinc | No |
| Low FODMAP certified | Yes | Yes |
| IBS clinical evidence | Yes - Monash University trial | Generally yes |
| Risk of bloating | Low - slow fermentation | Low - largely non-fermentable |
| LDL cholesterol support | Moderate | Strong - well documented |
| Gluten free | Yes | Yes |
If you want bowel regularity, gut support, or a gentle IBS-friendly fibre with antioxidants, sugarcane fibre has the edge. If lowering LDL cholesterol is your main goal, psyllium husk has stronger evidence for that.
Is Sugarcane Fibre Right for You?
The Australian Research Behind This Product
The science behind sugarcane fibre has strong Australian roots. It was studied at some of the country's most respected universities.
Side Effects and Who Should Be Careful
Sugarcane fibre is well tolerated by most people. But there are a few things worth knowing before you start.
Normal adjustment symptoms when you first start
If you are not used to a lot of fibre, increasing your intake too fast can cause bloating, gas, or looser stools. This usually settles within 1-2 weeks as your gut bacteria adjust.
Start with half a serving for your first 5-7 days, then build up to a full serving. Always mix it with at least 200-250ml of water and drink extra fluids through the day.
Is it safe for IBS?
Yes, and it is one of the few fibre supplements actually tested in IBS patients. The Monash trial found it was well tolerated on a low FODMAP diet and did not worsen IBS symptoms.[10, 15]
Does it contain sugar?
No. This product has had most of the sucrose removed, so it will not raise your blood sugar and is Low FODMAP certified.
Groups who should check with a health professional first
- People taking medications - fibre can lower drug absorption. Take medications at least 1-2 hours before or after your fibre supplement.
- People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) - speak with your gastroenterologist before increasing fibre intake.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women - fibre is generally fine, but check with your GP or midwife first.
- People with swallowing difficulties - make sure the powder is fully mixed before drinking.
How to Take Live More You Sugarcane Fibre
This product has a neutral flavour, so it will not overpower whatever you mix it into. You can stir it into water, juice, smoothies, yoghurt, or porridge.
Week 1-2: Start with half a serving mixed into at least 200ml of water. Take it at the same time each day.
Week 3 onwards: Move to a full serving once your gut has adjusted, and keep drinking extra water.
The recommended daily fibre intake is 25g for women and 30g for men. A quality fibre supplement, used alongside vegetables and wholegrains, helps close that gap.[3]
Results for bowel regularity usually show within 3-7 days. Gut microbiome and cholesterol benefits take 4-8 weeks of daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sugarcane fibre better than psyllium husk?
It depends on your goal. For bowel regularity and gut support, sugarcane fibre has a clear edge, while psyllium husk has a stronger track record for lowering LDL cholesterol.
Will this raise my blood sugar?
No. Most of the sucrose is removed during processing, and the soluble fibre actually helps slow blood sugar spikes after meals.
Is it suitable if I have IBS?
Yes, it is one of the few fibre supplements studied in IBS patients. A Monash University trial found it was well tolerated and improved bowel habits without worsening IBS symptoms.
How long before I notice results?
Most people notice better bowel regularity within 3-7 days of daily use. Bigger changes, like gut and cholesterol benefits, take 4-8 weeks to build.
Can I take it every day?
Yes, and daily use is recommended for best results. Start with half a serving and build up gradually, always with plenty of water.
Is it gluten free and vegan?
Yes to both. It is gluten free and suitable for vegans, and safe for people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Can I take it while pregnant?
Fibre is important during pregnancy, since constipation is common. We still recommend speaking with your GP or midwife before starting any new supplement.
Does fibre interact with medications?
Fibre can lower the absorption of some medications if taken at the same time. Take prescription medication at least 1-2 hours before or after your fibre supplement, and check with your pharmacist if you take medication for diabetes, cholesterol, or thyroid conditions.
References
- Springer Nature Link. (2024). Sugarcane Fibre as Dietary Supplement, Health Benefits and Applications in Functional Foods. link.springer.com
- Williams, B.A.; Grant, L.J.; Gidley, M.J.; Mikkelsen, D. (2017). Gut fermentation of dietary fibres. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18, 2203.
- National Academies (StatPearls/NCBI). The Role of Dietary Fiber in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Ball, M. et al. (2019). Comparing the chemical composition of dietary fibres prepared from sugarcane, psyllium husk and wheat dextrin. Food Chemistry. PubMed ID: 31260968. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Paroha, S. et al. (2020). Sugarcane Bagasse as Dietary Fibre. Indian Journal of Pure and Applied Biosciences, 8(6), 590-597.
- Oxford Academic. (2020). Soluble dietary fibres from sugarcane bagasse. International Journal of Food Science and Technology, 55(5). academic.oup.com
- Williams, B.A. et al. (2018). Fiber Supplements Derived From Sugarcane Stem, Wheat Dextrin and Psyllium Husk Have Different In Vitro Effects on the Human Gut Microbiota. Frontiers in Microbiology. PMC6060387. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc
- Shinde, T. (2020). Dietary Fibre from Virgin Sugarcane. Encyclopedia MDPI. encyclopedia.pub
- Better Health Channel / FSANZ. Food Standards Australia New Zealand. State Government of Victoria. betterhealth.vic.gov.au
- Halmos, E.P. et al. (2022). Supplementing Dietary Fibers With a Low FODMAP Diet in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Gastroenterology. PubMed ID: 34929392. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Slavin, J. (2013). Fiber and Prebiotics: Mechanisms and Health Benefits. Nutrients, 5(4), 1417-1435. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc
- Reynolds, A. et al. (2020). Dietary fibre and whole grains in diabetes management. PLOS Medicine. PMC7059907. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Better Health Victoria. Dietary Fibre. State Government of Victoria. betterhealth.vic.gov.au
- Zhu, J. et al. (2024). Dietary fiber influence on overall health. Frontiers in Nutrition. PMC11671356. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Monash FODMAP. (2022). Supplementing dietary fibres with a low FODMAP diet. monashfodmap.com
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