Long-term gastrointestinal tolerance of NUTRIOSE®FB in healthy men

Effects of a soluble dietary fibre NUTRIOSE® on colonic fermentation and excretion rates in rats

The resistant dextrin NUTRIOSE®, developed from starch, is expected to act as a prebiotic. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of NUTRIOSE® on cecal parameters, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations, and fecal excretion in rats. In an initial experiment, twenty-four male Fischer F344 rats were randomly assigned to one of the following four treatments for 14 days: G0 (control diet), G2.5 (control diet + 2.5% of dextrin), G5 (control diet + 5% of dextrin), and G10 (control diet + 10% of dextrin). After 14 days, total cecal weight, cecal content, and cecal wall weight were significantly increased in G5 and G10 compared to G0. At the same time, cecal pH was significantly lower in G10 compared to G0. Total SCFA concentration was significantly higher in G10 than in G5, G2.5, and G0, and significantly higher in G5 than in G0. Acetate, butyrate, and propionate concentrations were significantly increased in G5 and G10 compared to the controls. In a second trial based on a similar design, eighteen male Fischer F344 rats were treated with a control diet supplemented with 5% of dextrin or 5% of fructo-oligosaccharide. The results obtained with NUTRIOSE® were similar to those obtained with the fructo-oligosaccharide. In a third experiment, two groups of 5 Fischer F344 rats were orally treated with 100 and 1,000 mg/kg NUTRIOSE®, respectively, and from 18% to 25% of the dextrin was excreted in the feces. The results of these three studies show that the consumption of NUTRIOSE®, by its effects on total cecal weight, cecal content, cecal wall weight, pH, and SCFA production, could induce healthy benefits since these effects are reported to be prebiotic effects.

NUTRIOSE dietary fiber supplementation improves insulin resistance and determinants of metabolic syndrome in overweight men: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

The influence of dietary fiber on determinants of metabolic syndrome is controversial. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of NUTRIOSE supplementation on insulin resistance and the determinants of metabolic syndrome in overweight men. In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, we supplemented the diets of overweight Chinese men with 250 mL of fruit juice that contained NUTRIOSE (Test group: n = 60, age = 30.4 ± 4.3 years, body mass index (BMI) = 24.5 ± 0.2 kg·m–2) or a maltodextrin placebo (Control group: n = 60, age = 31.6 ± 4.1 years, BMI = 24.5 ± 0.3 kg·m–2) at a dosage of 17 g twice daily for 12 weeks. Daily caloric intake, body composition, blood chemistry, and blood pressure were evaluated every 4 weeks during the trial. Test subjects consumed fewer calories per day and had greater reductions in body weight, BMI, body fat percentage, and waist circumference than Control subjects. All markers of glucose metabolism improved in the Test group, with increases in adiponectin and reductions in glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance, glycosylated hemoglobin, and glycated albumin (all p < 0.01). Similarly, all lipid measures improved with increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and reductions in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides (all p < 0.01). No changes were observed in systolic blood pressure between groups. Most components of glucose metabolism and the lipid profile were significantly better in the Test than in the Control subjects. No adverse events or gastrointestinal complaints were reported in either group. Supplementation with NUTRIOSE for 12 weeks is well tolerated, lowers insulin resistance, and improves determinants of metabolic syndrome in overweight men.

Soluble fiber dextrins and pullulans vary in extent of hydrolytic digestion in vitro and in energy value and attenuate glycemic and insulinemic responses in dogs

The objective of this research was to measure in vitro hydrolytic digestion characteristics, glycemic and insulinemic responses, and true metabolizable energy (TMEn) content of select soluble fiber dextrins (SFDs) and pullulans. The SFDs were derived either from tapioca starch or from corn starch. The pullulans were of low, intermediate, and high molecular weight. Soluble fiber dextrins varied in digestibility, with all substrates resulting in low to intermediate in vitro monosaccharide digestion. Pullulans were nearly completely hydrolyzed after simulated hydrolytic digestion. The glycemic response with dogs varied widely among SFDs, with all but one SFD substrate having lower glycemic response than maltodextrin (Malt). The pullulans all resulted in low glycemic values. Lower relative insulinemic responses (RIR) compared to the Malt control were noted for all SFDs and pullulans. True metabolizable energy (TMEn) values for SFDs obtained using roosters were lower than for Malt, with tapioca-based SFDs having numerically higher values than corn-based SFDs. Pullulans resulted in higher TMEn values than did SFDs. Soluble fiber dextrins and pullulans may be suitable candidates for reduced calorie and glycemic foodstuffs.

Soluble fiber dextrin enhances the satiating power of beverages

This study compared the effects of four types of fiber on satiety and energy intakes at the next meal using a standard double-blinded preload study design. Study participants (14 men and 22 women) each took part in 6 study sessions. Study preloads were a combination of a solid snack and a liquid beverage (energy range 0.78-0.83 MJ) containing four different types of fiber: soluble fiber dextrin (12 g), soluble corn fiber (11.8 g), polydextrose (11.8 g), and resistant starch (11.2g). All four fibers were compared to two control conditions of equal volume: an isoenergetic, low-fiber preload and a lower-energy, low-fiber preload. All preloads were presented twice for a total of 0.35-1.65 MJ and 1-24 g fiber. Satiety ratings were collected for 20 min intervals for 220 min during the morning testing session. A test meal was served at 1200 h and plate waste measured. The five higher-energy preloads led to higher fullness and lower hunger ratings compared to the low-energy control but were not significantly different from each other. Relative to the isoenergetic control, only soluble fiber dextrin significantly suppressed energy intakes (p=0.023). Supplementing beverages with soluble fiber dextrin affects short term energy intake and may have implications for weight control.

Potential interest of gut microbial changes induced by non-digestible carbohydrates of wheat in the management of obesity and related disorders

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The modulation of the gut microbiota by nutrients is of interest in order to reverse host metabolic alterations linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis. This review discusses how nondigestible carbohydrates (NDC) derived from wheat may constitute functional cereal food products in the management of obesity and diabetes, notably through modulation of gut microbiota.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent evidences highlighted that alterations in the composition of the gut microbiota participate in the development of obesity. Interesting nutrients that target specific gut microbes (prebiotics) are able to reverse host metabolic alterations linked to gut microbiota dysbiosis in obese individuals. Recent data suggest that NDC prepared from wheat represent a new class of nutrients exhibiting prebiotic properties.

SUMMARY

Processing technologies of wheat grain lead to production of original NDC characterized by specific degree of polymerization and degree of substitution. Those characteristics condition the gut compartment where fermentation occurs, the changes of bacteria composition and the proportion of bacterial metabolites (i.e., short-chain fatty acids) released in the gut. Scientists may take into consideration a key question: could we help control obesity and type 2 diabetes through the modulation of gut bacterial metabolism and/or composition by wheat-derived NDC? This opens up an original area in nutrition research.

Short-term digestive tolerance of high-dose of NUTRIOSE®FB10 in adult

NUTRIOSE®FB10 is a dextrin considered a dietary fiber. The present study aims to assess the digestive tolerance of a high dose of NUTRIOSE®FB10 consumed over the day, and its effect on digestive symptoms. In a randomized, double-blind, cross-over trial, 12 healthy men ingested 1 l/day orange juice containing 50 g either NUTRIOSE®FB10 or placebo (maltodextrin) in three equal doses at breakfast, lunch and 4:00 pm meal. Bloating, borborygmus, flatulence, nausea feelings, stomach ache, transit and stool consistency were evaluated at different times after the first consumption. Questionnaires on well-being and bowel movement were completed at 24 and 48 h. For all data except stool consistency, the area under the curve, the maximum score and the time of this maximum were calculated. For stool consistency, the mean score over 48 h was determined. There was no statistical difference between NUTRIOSE®FB10 and placebo on each criterion. NUTRIOSE®FB10 is well tolerated during a single day at 50 g divided into three doses.

Nutriose, a prebiotic low-digestible carbohydrate, stimulates gut mucosal immunity and prevents TNBS-induced colitis in piglets

BACKGROUND

We investigated a prebiotic low-digestible carbohydrate (LDC) as a possible food ingredient to stimulate bowel functions in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The study aimed to assess a fermentable dextrin fiber (Nutriose) and its relationship to the immune management of the disease and the microbiota profile in colitis-bearing piglets.

METHODS

In a randomized placebo-controlled parallel blind preclinical study, 32 male piglets were fed LDC (4% Nutriose) or dextrose placebo for 44 days before being challenged with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) to induce colitis. We followed the microbiota profile using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeted to 9 bacterial genera. Secretory IgA was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Inflammatory protein profiles were monitored in blood and colonic tissues. Both histological scoring of biopsy samples and live endoscopic scoring were used to measure colitis development.

RESULTS

Prior and continuing LDC supplementation alleviated the symptoms of colitis (body weight loss, bloody stools) induced by a TNBS challenge. This effect was associated with an improvement in endoscopic and histological scores. LDC was shown to selectively downregulate some of the proinflammatory factors and their concomitant pyretic events and to stimulate the Th2-related immune pathway (IL-10 and s-IgA).

CONCLUSIONS

At the dose tested, LDC is a well-tolerated prebiotic agent able to not only stimulate butyrogenic bacteria strains and reduce intestinal transit disorders and energy intake, but also to prevent chronic inflammatory intestinal injuries.

Evaluation of the effect of four fibers on laxation, gastrointestinal tolerance and serum markers in healthy humans

BACKGROUND

Average dietary fiber intake in the United States is roughly half of the recommended amount. As new dietary fiber products are introduced to increase fiber intake, it is critical to evaluate the physiological effects of such fibers.

AIMS

This study examined the effect of 4 fibers derived from maize or tapioca on fecal chemistry, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and serum markers of chronic disease.

METHODS

Twenty healthy subjects completed the single-blind crossover study in which 12 g/day of fiber (pullulan, Promitor Resistant Starch, soluble fiber dextrin or Promitor Soluble Corn Fiber) or placebo (maltodextrin) were consumed for 14 days followed by a 21-day washout. GI symptom surveys were completed (days 3 and 14), stools were collected (days 11-14), diet was recorded (days 12-14) and fasting blood samples were obtained (day 15).

RESULTS

The 4 test fibers were well tolerated, with mild to moderate GI symptoms. Total short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations did not differ among the treatments. Fecal pH and individual SCFAs were affected by some treatments. Stool weight and serum markers of chronic disease did not change with these treatments.

CONCLUSION

Increasing fiber intake by 12 g/day was well tolerated and may have a positive impact on colon health due to fermentation.

Gastrointestinal effects of low-digestible carbohydrates

Low-digestible carbohydrates (LDCs) are carbohydrates that are incompletely or not absorbed in the small intestine but are at least partly fermented by bacteria in the large intestine. Fiber, resistant starch, and sugar alcohols are types of LDCs. Given potential health benefits (including a reduced caloric content, reduced or no effect on blood glucose levels, non-cariogenic effect) the prevalence of LDCs in processed foods is increasing. Many of the benefits of LDCs are related to the inability of human digestive enzymes to break down completely the carbohydrates into absorbable saccharides and the subsequent fermentation of unabsorbed carbohydrates in the colon. As a result, LDCs may affect laxation and cause gastrointestinal effects, including abdominal discomfort, flatus, and diarrhea, especially at higher or excessive intakes. Such responses, though transient, affect the perception of the well-being of consumers and their acceptance of food products containing LDCs. Current recommendations for fiber intake do not consider total LDC consumption nor recommend an upper limit for LDC intake based on potential gastrointestinal effects. Therefore, a review of published studies reporting gastrointestinal effects of LDCs was conducted. We included only studies published in refereed journals in English. Additionally, we excluded studies of subjects with incomplete or abnormal functioning gastrointestinal tracts or where antibiotics, stimulant laxatives, or other drugs affecting motility were included. Only in studies with a control period, either placebo treatment or no LDC treatment, were included. Studies must have included an acceptable measure of gastrointestinal effect. Sixty-eight studies and six review articles were evaluated. This review describes definitions, classifications, and mechanisms of LDCs, evaluates published human feeding studies of fifteen LDCs for associations between gastrointestinal effects and levels of LDC intake, and presents recommendations for LDC consumption and further research.

A Review of the Role of Soluble Fiber in Health with Specific Reference to Wheat Dextrin

Dietary fiber is widely recognized to have a beneficial role in overall health, but only at adequate levels (25 − 38 g/day for healthy adults). Wheat dextrin in particular is a soluble fiber that can easily be added to the diet and is widely used in the food industry. There is some debate about whether increased intake of soluble fibers leads to health benefits. This paper reviews the evidence regarding the physiological effects and potential health benefits of the addition of soluble dietary fibers, with specific reference to wheat dextrin, based on a search of PubMed. The evidence suggests that soluble fibers help to regulate the digestive system, may increase micronutrient absorption, stabilize blood glucose and lower serum lipids, may prevent several gastrointestinal disorders, and have an accepted role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is concluded that supplementation with soluble fibers (e.g. wheat dextrin) may be useful in individuals at risk of a lower than recommended dietary fiber intake.

(1)H NMR metabolite profiling of feces as a tool to assess the impact of nutrition on the human microbiome

Current research increasingly recognizes the human gut microbiome as a metabolically versatile biological 'digester' that plays an essential role in regulating the host metabolome. Gut microbiota recover energy and biologically active molecules from food that would otherwise be washed out of the intestinal tract without benefit. In this study, a protocol for NMR-based metabolite profiling has been developed to access the activity of the microbiome. The physicochemical properties of fecal metabolites have been found to strongly affect the reproducibility and coverage of the profiles obtained. Metabolite profiles generated by water and methanol extraction of lyophilized feces are reproducible and comprise a variety of different compounds including, among others, short-chain fatty acids (e.g. acetate, propionate, butyrate, isobutyrate, isovalerate, malate), organic acids (e.g. succinate, pyruvate, fumarate, lactate), amino acids, uracil, trimethylamine, ethanol, glycerol, glucose, phenolic acids, cholate, and lipid components. The NMR profiling approach was validated on fecal samples from a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized cross-over study, in which healthy human subjects consumed a placebo and either a grape juice extract or a mix of grape juice and wine extract over a period of 4 weeks, each. The considerable inter- and intra-individual variability observed originates in the first instance from variable metabolite concentrations rather than from variable metabolite compositions, suggesting that different colonic flora share general biochemical characteristics metabolizing different substrates to specific metabolic patterns. Whereas the grape juice extract did not induce changes in the metabolite profiles as compared with the placebo, the mixture of grape juice and wine extract induced a reduction in isobutyrate, which may indicate that polyphenols are able to modulate the microbial ecology of the gut.