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Clarification is required when the term "carbohydrate" is used interchangeably with "saccharide" and "glycan." Carbohydrate classification based on human digestive enzyme activities brings clarity to the energy supply function of digestible sugars and starch. However, categorizing structurally diverse non‐digestible carbohydrates (NDCs) to make dietary intake recommendations for health promotion remains elusive. In this review, we present a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the traditional dichotomic classifications of carbohydrates, which were introduced by food chemists, nutritionists, and microbiologists. In parallel, we discuss the current consensus on commonly used terms for NDCs such as "dietary fiber," "prebiotics," and "fermentable glycans" and highlight their inherent differences from the perspectives of gut microbiome. Moreover, we provide a historical perspective on the development of novel concepts such as microbiota‐accessible carbohydrates, microbiota‐directed fiber, targeted prebiotics, and glycobiome. Crucially, these novel concepts proposed by multidisciplinary scholars help to distinguish the interactions between diverse NDCs and the gut microbiome. In summary, the term NDCs created based on the inability of human digestive enzymes fails to denote their interactions with gut microbiome. Considering that the gut microbiome possesses sophisticated enzyme systems to harvest diverse NDCs, the subclassification of NDCs should be realigned to their metabolism by various gut microbes, particularly health‐promoting microbes. Such rigorous categorizations facilitate the development of microbiome‐targeted therapeutic strategies by incorporating specific types of NDCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Crassulacean acid metabolism plants, such as Stenocereus spp., are climate warming-resilient crops used as food and for by-products elaboration in arid and semi-arid agroecosystems. A few studies on secondary metabolites have been conducted in pitayo fruit (PF), but there are no reports of these compounds in juice powders (JP) with (JPS) or without seeds (JPWS). This study was devoted to characterizing the juice powders (JPS and JPWS) of five pitayas with different flesh colors with regard to some phytochemical and functional attributes. Methods: The study was conducted with a completely random design with factorial arrangement in treatments (PF × JP). Results: Differences among pitayas were related to peel and flesh color attributes. Except for soluble dietary fiber, the remainder of the non-digestible carbohydrates were greater in JPS than in JPWS of all pitayas. Phenols and flavonoids were found to be the highest in the JPWS of all pitayas, whereas total saponins were the highest in JPS of the 'Pink' pitaya. The JPWS of the 'Yellow' and 'Reddish-Purple' pitayas had the highest content of betaxanthins and indicaxanthins, respectively. Antioxidant capacity was the highest in JPS of 'Reddish-Purple' and 'Pink' pitayas. Conclusions: Except for some phenolic compounds, the study suggests that pitayas' JPS would benefit human health when freshly consumed or as elaborated by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human milk oligosaccharides (hMOs) in mothers' milk play a crucial role in guiding the colonization of microbiota and gut-immune barrier development in infants. Non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs) such as synthetic single hMOs, galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), inulin-type fructans and pectin oligomers have been added to infant formula to substitute some hMOs' functions. HMOs and NDCs can modulate the gut-immune barrier, which is a multiple-layered functional unit consisting of microbiota, a mucus layer, gut epithelium, and the immune system. There is increasing evidence that the structures of the complex polysaccharides may influence their efficacy in modulating the gut-immune barrier. This review focuses on the role of different structures of individual hMOs and commonly applied NDCs in infant formulas in (i) direct regulation of the gut-immune barrier in a microbiota-independent manner and in (ii) modulation of microbiota composition and microbial metabolites of these polysaccharides in a microbiota-dependent manner. Both have been shown to be essential for guiding the development of an adequate immune barrier, but the effects are very dependent on the structural features of hMO or NDC. This knowledge might lead to tailored infant formulas for specific target groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum lycocarpum St. Hil. is considered a natural anti-inflammatory. In traditional medicine, it is used to reduce cholesterol levels in the treatment of obesity. Foods capable of conferring a protective and nutritious effect have been used to prevent or attenuate the clinical symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases. Ulcerative colitis is a multifactorial inflammatory bowel disease. This study investigated the impact of the consumption of the fibrous fraction (FF) and resistant starch (RS) of fruta-do-lobo in an experimental model of colitis induced with the use 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS) in rats. The different colitis groups all experienced decreased weight gain, which could be linked to the inflammatory process (p = 0.603). Additionally, the experimental model led to increased oxidative stress, higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the elevated gene expression of these cytokines. Despite this, consuming the fibrous fraction of fruta-do-lobo (RS and FF) did not appear to protect the animals against the inflammatory process. Regarding the expression of TNF-α, only the group treated with the drug mesalamine had a reduced serum level of this inflammatory marker (p = 0.03). Our results showed that the diet containing RS and FF did not protect the intestinal mucosa against TNBS inflammation. New studies on the variation in the time of consumption or the supplemented dose of fruta-do-lobo fibers could help to elucidate their effects in protecting the mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Crassulacean acid metabolism plants, such as Stenocereus spp., are climate warming-resilient crops used as food and for by-products elaboration in arid and semi-arid agroecosystems. A few studies on secondary metabolites have been conducted in pitayo fruit (PF), but there are no reports of these compounds in juice powders (JP) with (JPS) or without seeds (JPWS). This study was devoted to characterizing the juice powders (JPS and JPWS) of five pitayas with different flesh colors with regard to some phytochemical and functional attributes. Methods: The study was conducted with a completely random design with factorial arrangement in treatments (PF × JP). Results: Differences among pitayas were related to peel and flesh color attributes. Except for soluble dietary fiber, the remainder of the non-digestible carbohydrates were greater in JPS than in JPWS of all pitayas. Phenols and flavonoids were found to be the highest in the JPWS of all pitayas, whereas total saponins were the highest in JPS of the ‘Pink’ pitaya. The JPWS of the ‘Yellow’ and ‘Reddish-Purple’ pitayas had the highest content of betaxanthins and indicaxanthins, respectively. Antioxidant capacity was the highest in JPS of ‘Reddish-Purple’ and ‘Pink’ pitayas. Conclusions: Except for some phenolic compounds, the study suggests that pitayas’ JPS would benefit human health when freshly consumed or as elaborated by-products.

Butyrate and butyrate-producing bacteria are important indicators of gut microbial metabolism in human health. Ten non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), including inulin, fructooligosaccharide (FOS), oats β-glucans (OGS), oats β-glucan oligosaccharides (OGOS), Astragalus polysaccharides (APS), Astragalus oligosaccharides (AOS), xanthan gum oligosaccharides (XGOS), gellan gum oligosaccharides (GGOS), curdlan oligosaccharides (COS), and pullulan oligosaccharides (POS) were used to investigate NDC specificity in modulating butyrate-producing bacteria and butyrate production in 48-h in vitro fermentation studies in combination with fecal inocula from 7 healthy donors and 11 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We observed that the amount of these ten NDCs utilized depended on NDC structure and inter-individual gut microbial differences. XGOS and GGOS fermentations significantly increased butyrate-producing bacteria (especially f_Lachnospiraceae) and butyric acid production. Furthermore, XGOS and GGOS fermentations showed a better ability to consistently modulate gut microbiota composition and metabolic properties between individuals of healthy donors or T2D patients when compared to inulin, FOS, APS, AOS, OGS, OGOS, COS and POS fermentation. This research indicated that xanthan gum and gellan gum oligosaccharides have strong specificity to enhance butyrate-producing bacteria and butyrate production.

Solanum lycocarpum St. Hil. is considered a natural anti-inflammatory. In traditional medicine, it is used to reduce cholesterol levels in the treatment of obesity. Foods capable of conferring a protective and nutritious effect have been used to prevent or attenuate the clinical symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases. Ulcerative colitis is a multifactorial inflammatory bowel disease. This study investigated the impact of the consumption of the fibrous fraction (FF) and resistant starch (RS) of fruta-do-lobo in an experimental model of colitis induced with the use 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS) in rats. The different colitis groups all experienced decreased weight gain, which could be linked to the inflammatory process (p = 0.603). Additionally, the experimental model led to increased oxidative stress, higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the elevated gene expression of these cytokines. Despite this, consuming the fibrous fraction of fruta-do-lobo (RS and FF) did not appear to protect the animals against the inflammatory process. Regarding the expression of TNF-α, only the group treated with the drug mesalamine had a reduced serum level of this inflammatory marker (p = 0.03). Our results showed that the diet containing RS and FF did not protect the intestinal mucosa against TNBS inflammation. New studies on the variation in the time of consumption or the supplemented dose of fruta-do-lobo fibers could help to elucidate their effects in protecting the mucosa.

Probiotics have gained significant attention in recent years due to the growing awareness of physical health and well-being. However, maintaining high concentrations of probiotics throughout the product's shelf life and during the gastrointestinal tract is crucial for ensuring their health-promoting effects. After determining an optimal formulation through a fractional factorial model, this study optimizes probiotic Bacillus Clausii delivery through spray-drying microencapsulation using a novel maltodextrin-alginate-inulin (MDX-ALG-IN) formulation (optimized ratio: 7:2:1). Notably, this formulation exclusively comprises non-digestible carbohydrates, marking a novel approach in probiotic encapsulation. Achieving a high Product Yield (51.06 %) and Encapsulation Efficiency (80.53 %), the study employed SEM for morphological analysis, revealing an irregular form and extensive surface in dentations characteristic of maltodextrin involvement. With a low moisture content of 3.02 % (±0.23 %) and 90.52 % solubility, the powder displayed exceptional properties. Probiotic viability remained robust, surviving up to 60 % even after 180 days at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 37 °C. Thermal characterization unveiled microcapsule resilience, exhibiting a glass transition temperature (Tg) at 138.61 °C and a melting point of 177.28 °C. The study systematically addresses crucial aspects of microencapsulation, including formulation optimization, morphological characteristics, and powder properties. Notably, the MDX-ALG-IN microcapsules demonstrated stability in simulated gastrointestinal conditions, indicating potential application for supplements and complex food matrices. In summary, this research contributes to microencapsulation understanding, emphasizing the MDX-ALG-IN formulation's efficacy in preserving probiotic viability across production stages and simulated digestive processes.

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) are a class of organic fatty acids that consist of 1 to 6 carbons in length. They are primary end-products which arise from non-digestible carbohydrates (NDC) fermentation of colonic bacteria. They are the fundamental energy sources for post-weaning ruminants. SCFA represent the major carbon flux of diet through the gut microbiota to the host. They also play a vital role in regulating cell expansion and gene expression of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Recently, remarkable progresses have been made in understanding the immunomodulatory effects of SCFA and their interactions with the host. The processes involved in this study encompassed inflammasome activation, proliferation of lymphocytes, and maturation of intestinal mucosal immunity maturation. It is important to note that the establishment and maturation of intestinal mucosal immune system are intricately connected to the barrier function of intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) and the homeostasis of gut microbiota. Thus, insights into the role of SCFA in enteric mucosal immunoreaction of calves will enhance our understanding of their various regulatory functions. This review aims to analyze recent evidence on the role of SCFA as essential signaling molecules between gut microbiota and animal health. Additionally, we provide a summary of current literature on SCFA in intestinal mucosal immune responses of dairy calves.

Objective This study was conducted to evaluate the interactive effects of dietary digestible tryptophan (dTry) and soy oligosaccharides (SO) on growth performance, caecal skatole level, and microflora of broiler chickens aged from 14 to 42 days. Methods Three hundred and sixty broiler chicks were allocated equally to 36 cages at 14-day-of-age according to body weight and gender. Using a 3×2 factorial arrangement, 3 dietary dTry levels (0.18%, 0.23%, and 0.28%) supplemented with 0 or 3.5 g/kg of SO were used to create 6 diets (treatments). Each diet was fed to six replicates of 10 birds (60 birds/treatment), growth performance was measured. Caecal content samples were collected at 42 days of age. Results Results showed that significantly different dTry level×SO interactions were found for average daily gain (ADG), caecal levels of indole, propionic acid, and butyric acid, and microbial Shannon index (p

Non-digestible carbohydrates are an unavoidable component in a pig’s diet, as all plant-based feeds contain different kinds of non-digestible carbohydrates. The major types of non-digestible carbohydrates include non-starch polysaccharides (such as cellulose, pectin, and hemicellulose), resistant starch, and non-digestible oligosaccharides (such as fructo-oligosaccharide and xylo-oligosaccharide). Non-digestible carbohydrates play a significant role in balancing the gut microbial ecology and overall health of the swine by promoting the production of short chain fatty acids. Although non-digestible carbohydrates are rich in energy, swine cannot extract this energy on their own due to the absence of enzymes required for their degradation. Instead, they rely on gut microbes to utilize these carbohydrates for energy production. Despite the importance of non-digestible carbohydrate degradation, limited studies have been conducted on the swine gut microbes involved in this process. While next-generation high-throughput sequencing has aided in understanding the microbial compositions of the swine gut, specific information regarding the bacteria involved in non-digestible carbohydrate degradation remains limited. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate and comprehend the bacteria responsible for the breakdown of non-digestible carbohydrates in the gut. In this mini review, we have discussed the major bacteria involved in the fermentation of different types of non-digestible carbohydrates in the large intestine of swine, shedding light on their potential roles and contributions to swine nutrition and health.

Simple Summary: Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is increasing worldwide and represents an important health problem.Therapy failure and progression to metastatic disease are major concerns. Among the factors involved in tumor growth, galectin-3 (Gal-3) plays an important role due to its ability to finetune a number of molecular players that act at different levels of cancer-related processes. A clear relationship between Gal-3 and CRC has been demonstrated. Several studies have, indeed, reported a pathogenetic role for this protein in intestinal inflammation and CRC onset/progression. Moreover, some plant-source food-derived bioactive compounds (mostly fibers and polyphenols) can contribute to the control of CRC onset/growth through their capacity to block Gal-3 activities. In this review, we summarize these studies, highlighting the influence of Gal-3 on CRC risk/progression, cancer cell spreading and patient prognosis, as well as the potential of natural food-derived Gal-3 inhibitors as promising candidates for CRC prevention and therapy. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Despite advances in surgical and therapeutic management, tumor metastases and resistance to therapy still represent major hurdles. CRC risk is highly modifiable by lifestyle factors, including diet, which strongly influences both cancer incidence and related mortality. Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a multifaceted protein involved in multiple pathophysiological pathways underlying chronic inflammation and cancer. Its versatility is given by the ability to participate in a wide range of tumor-promoting processes, including cell–cell/cell–matrix interactions, cell growth regulation and apoptosis, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. This review provides an updated summary of preclinical and observational human studies investigating the pathogenetic role of Gal-3 in intestinal inflammation and CRC, as well as the potential of Gal-3 activity inhibition by plant-source food-derived bioactive compounds to control CRC onset/growth. These studies highlight both direct and immuno-mediated effects of Gal-3 on tumor growth and invasiveness and its potential role as a CRC prognostic biomarker. Substantial evidence indicates natural food-derived Gal-3 inhibitors as promising candidates for CRC prevention and therapy. However, critical issues, such as their bioavailability and efficacy, in controlled human studies need to be addressed to translate research progress into clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiome is impacted by certain types of dietary fibre. However, the type, duration and dose needed to elicit gut microbial changes and whether these changes also influence microbial metabolites remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of supplementing healthy participants with two types of non-digestible carbohydrates (resistant starch (RS) and polydextrose (PD)) on the stool microbiota and microbial metabolite concentrations in plasma, stool and urine, as secondary outcomes in the Dietary Intervention Stem Cells and Colorectal Cancer (DISC) Study. The DISC study was a double-blind, randomised controlled trial that supplemented healthy participants with RS and/or PD or placebo for 50 d in a 2 × 2 factorial design. DNA was extracted from stool samples collected pre- and post-intervention, and V4 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to profile the gut microbiota. Metabolite concentrations were measured in stool, plasma and urine by high-performance liquid chromatography. A total of fifty-eight participants with paired samples available were included. After 50 d, no effects of RS or PD were detected on composition of the gut microbiota diversity (alpha- and beta-diversity), on genus relative abundance or on metabolite concentrations. However, Drichlet's multinomial mixture clustering-based approach suggests that some participants changed microbial enterotype post-intervention. The gut microbiota and fecal, plasma and urinary microbial metabolites were stable in response to a 50-d fibre intervention in middle-aged adults. Larger and longer studies, including those which explore the effects of specific fibre sub-types, may be required to determine the relationships between fibre intake, the gut microbiome and host health.

Regular intake of dietary fiber is critical for adequate metabolic health and the prevention of obesity. The relevancy of fiber intake is well illustrated by accounting for the ratio of carbohydrates-to-fiber (CFR). However, it is not well known if the CFR is associated with body composition and the quality of diet in young women who are known to have a higher incidence of eating disorders related to restrictive carbohydrate diets. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the difference in body composition and the quality of diet in women with a low and high CFR. Methods: A total of 22 participants were clustered into two groups (group 1 – below the median CFR and group 2 – above the median CFR). Body composition was analyzed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Dietary analysis via a 3-day food log was conducted to examine the overall energy intake, macronutrient breakdown, and diet quality. One-way ANOVA and Point-biserial analyses were performed to explore group differences and correlations. Results: The mean CFR for Group 1 was 9.23 ± 2.85 and for Group 2 was 20.75 ± 8.71, which was significantly different between the groups F(1,21) = 17.368, p

Well characterized databases used for experimental purposes with extensive meta-data are essential for conducting meaningful and comparable studies. The Food-pics_extended database (Blechert et al., 2019) is one example for a widely used food stimulus database (original publication Blechert et al., 2014: 285 citations, and 2019: 32 citations). Indeed, meta-data on low level and high level image characteristics is broad, yet fiber ratings are not included, limiting its use in diet-related studies. Therefore, we developed fiber ratings per item (n = 562 stimuli), based on mean values of four non-expert raters. Ratings show good reliability (ICC = 0.77) and meaningful ranges per food type (mean fiber per 100 g by food type minbeverages = 0.04 ± 0.04 g and max Ready–to–eat savories = 4.49 ± 1.58). The newly provided fiber ratings enrich the already valuable database and extend it by an important nutrient value for human and planetary health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic diseases (MDs), including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes, occur when the body's normal metabolic processes are disrupted. Behavioral risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and dietary habits are strongly associated with a higher risk of MD. However, scientific evidence strongly suggests that balanced, healthy diets containing non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), such as dietary fiber and resistant starch, can reduce the risk of developing MD. In particular, major properties of NDCs, such as water retention, fecal bulking, viscosity, and fermentation in the gut, have been found to be important for reducing the risk of MD by decreasing blood glucose and lipid levels, increasing satiety and insulin sensitivity, and modifying the gut microbiome. Short chain fatty acids produced during the fermentation of NDCs in the gut are mainly responsible for improvement in MD. However, the effects of NDCs are dependent on the type, source, dose, and duration of NDC intake, and some of the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of NDCs on MD remain unclear. In this review, we briefly summarize current studies on the effects of NDCs on MD and discuss potential mechanisms that might contribute to further understanding these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Well characterized databases used for experimental purposes with extensive meta-data are essential for conducting meaningful and comparable studies. The Food-pics_extended database (Blechert et al., 2019) is one example for a widely used food stimulus database (original publication Blechert et al., 2014: 285 citations, and 2019: 32 citations). Indeed, meta-data on low level and high level image characteristics is broad, yet fiber ratings are not included, limiting its use in diet-related studies. Therefore, we developed fiber ratings per item (n = 562 stimuli), based on mean values of four non-expert raters. Ratings show good reliability (ICC = 0.77) and meaningful ranges per food type (mean fiber per 100 g by food type minbeverages = 0.04 ± 0.04 g and maxReady–to–eatsavories = 4.49 ± 1.58). The newly provided fiber ratings enrich the already valuable database and extend it by an important nutrient value for human and planetary health.

Obesity and cardiometabolic diseases in both developed and developing counties in a state of nutrition transition are often related to diet, which also play a major role in shaping human gut microbiota. The human gut harbors diverse microbes that play an essential role in the well-being of their host. Complex interactions between diet and microorganisms may lead to beneficial or detrimental outcomes to host cardiometabolic health. Despite numerous studies using rodent models indicated that high-fat diet may disrupt protective functions of the intestinal barrier and contribute to inflammatory processes, evidence from population-based study is still limited. In our recent study of a 6-month randomized controlled-feeding trial, we showed that high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet was associated with unfavorable changes in gut microbiota, fecal microbial metabolites, and plasma proinflammatory factors in healthy young adults. Here, we provide an overview and extended discussion of our key findings, and outline important future directions.

ABSTRACT: Feed additives that can modulate the poultry gastrointestinal tract and provide benefit to bird performance and health have recently received more interest for commercial applications. Such feed supplements offer an economic advantage because they may directly benefit poultry producers by either decreasing mortality rates of farm animals, increasing bird growth rates, or improve feed efficieny. They can also limit foodborne pathogen establishment in bird flocks by modifying the gastrointestinal microbial population. Prebiotics are known as non-digestible carbohydrates that selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria, thus improving the overall health of the host. Once prebiotics are introduced to the host, 2 major modes of action can potentially occur. Initially, the corresponding prebiotic reaches the intestine of the chicken without being digested in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract but are selectively utilized by certain bacteria considered beneficial to the host. Secondly, other gut activities occur due to the presence of the prebiotic, including generation of short-chain fatty acids and lactic acid as microbial fermentation products, a decreased rate of pathogen colonization, and potential bird health benefits. In the current review, the effect of prebiotics on the gastrointestinal tract microbiome will be discussed as well as future directions for further research.

Modifying proteins through the Maillard reaction has garnered significant attention from researchers. The amino group of a protein and the carbonyl group of a carbohydrate covalently interact, forming conjugates. The production of conjugates is compelling due to the improvement of protein properties, such as emulsification, solubilization, foam formation ability, antioxidant capacity, kinetic stability, and even reduction of allergenicity. Producing conjugates via the Maillard reaction is a strategy that can enhance the utilization of proteins with limited technological properties. Furthermore, the use of prebiotic fibers as a source of carbonyl for covalent bonds with proteins allows for the creation of a new functional ingredient. This new ingredient can be used for targeted and selective delivery of proteins to intestinal probiotics. The conjugates are characterized by their resistance to gastrointestinal digestion, ensuring that a portion of the protein reaches the colon. The prebiotic fraction of the conjugate imparts selectivity for the growth and proliferation of probiotics. This review provides an overview of the main concepts of the Maillard reaction and the factors that influence the reaction rate. We highlighted the use of prebiotic dietary fibers to enhance the technological and functional properties of the proteins. Additionally, we emphasized the production of a functional ingredient targeted towards colonic probiotics because of the covalent bonding between prebiotic dietary fibers and proteins. The protein-carbohydrate conjugation via the Maillard reaction can be a promising strategy for enhancing proteins' technological and functional properties. These conjugates should be produced under controlled conditions of temperature, time, type, and size of the carbohydrate, protein-carbohydrate ratio, and pH, aiming to limit the reaction to the initial stage. Thus, there is a significant challenge in finding and controlling the optimal process conditions that ensure the improvement of the techno-functional properties of proteins. Additionally, protein/carbohydrate conjugates may possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory capabilities, making them suitable for targeted delivery to the intestinal microbiota. This turns them into promising ingredients for both the food and pharmaceutical industries. • The Maillard conjugation is a promising strategy for protein modification. • The covalent bonding of proteins and prebiotic fibers can obtain a functional ingredient with enhanced characteristics. • Controlling process variables is necessary to enhance the desired functionality of proteins. • The conjugation of proteins via the Maillard reaction reduces protein digestibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scFOS) are well-recognized prebiotic fibers. Fossence™ (FOSS) is a scFOS that has been produced from sucrose via a proprietary fermentation process and has not been tested for its digestibility or glucose/insulin response (GR and IR, respectively). The present randomized, controlled, cross-over study was conducted in 3 phases to explore GR and IR to ingestion of FOSS, when replaced by/added to available-carbohydrates (avCHO) among 25 healthy adults (40 ± 14years). In each phase GR and IR elicited by 3–4 test-meals were measured among the fasted recruited subjects. The interventional test meals were as follows: Phase-1, water alone or 10g FOSS or 10g Dextrose in 250ml water; Phase-2, 250ml water containing Dextrose:FOSS (g:g) in the content as 50:0 or 50:15 or 35:0 or 35:15; Phase-3 portions of white-bread (WB) containing avCHO:FOSS (g:g) in the content as 50:0 or 50:15 or 35:0 or 35:15. Blood samples (finger prick method) were collected at fasting and 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min after start of test meal ingestion. Plasma glucose and serum insulin were analyzed utilizing standard methods. The primary endpoint was differences in glucose IAUC. All subjects provided their written consent to participate in the study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03755232). The results demonstrated that FOSS, when consumed alone, showed no raise in glycaemia or insulinemia and was statistically equivalent to response of water alone. GR and IR elicited by dextrose:FOSS and WB:FOSS test-meals of Phase 2 and Phase 3, were statistically equivalent to the respective test-meals without FOSS. Result of the 3 phases support the hypothesis that FOSS is resistant to breakdown and is indigestible in the human small-intestine, and therefore can be classified as an unavailable carbohydrate that does not raise post prandial blood glucose or insulin. FOSS, being sweet to taste, may be an acceptable sugar replacer in beverages without compromising their taste and sensory qualities.

Abatement of odour emissions in poultry production is important to ensure the quality and safety in the poultry industry as well as for the benefit of the environment. This study was conducted to compare the effects of supplementation with different amounts of dietary soybean oligosaccharides (SBO) and chlortetracycline (CHL) on the major odour-causing compounds in the excreta and on the caecal microbiota in broiler chickens. One-day-old broiler chickens were subjected to a 42-day experiment involving 6 treatments with 6 replicates per treatment (10 birds/cage). The treatments were as follows: negative control (NC; basal diet), positive control (PC; basal diet supplemented with CHL) and basal diet supplemented with 0.5, 2.0, 3.5 and 5.0 g/kg SBO (0.5SBO, 2.0SBO, 3.5SBO and 5.0SBO, respectively). Fresh excreta were sampled for the analysis of odour compounds by HPLC. Caecum content was collected for the caecal microbiota analysis through 16S rRNA sequencing. Results showed that on day 42, the excreta indole concentration in the broilers fed with 2.0SBO, 3.5SBO and 5.0SBO and PC was significantly decreased (P

Metabolic diseases (MDs), including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes, occur when the body’s normal metabolic processes are disrupted. Behavioral risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and dietary habits are strongly associated with a higher risk of MD. However, scientific evidence strongly suggests that balanced, healthy diets containing non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), such as dietary fiber and resistant starch, can reduce the risk of developing MD. In particular, major properties of NDCs, such as water retention, fecal bulking, viscosity, and fermentation in the gut, have been found to be important for reducing the risk of MD by decreasing blood glucose and lipid levels, increasing satiety and insulin sensitivity, and modifying the gut microbiome. Short chain fatty acids produced during the fermentation of NDCs in the gut are mainly responsible for improvement in MD. However, the effects of NDCs are dependent on the type, source, dose, and duration of NDC intake, and some of the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of NDCs on MD remain unclear. In this review, we briefly summarize current studies on the effects of NDCs on MD and discuss potential mechanisms that might contribute to further understanding these effects.

The postprandial blood glucose and hormonal responses to isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO) are unclear. The objective of this study was to compare postprandial glucose, insulin and incretin responses of IMO with dextrose in healthy adults. In trial 1, blood glucose responses to IMO, isomaltose, dextran and maltodextrin were compared with dextrose in n = 12 participants. In trial 2, serial glucose and hormone measurements over 2 h were measured in n = 10 participants. The glycemic effect of IMO was calculated using the Glycemic Glucose Equivalents (GGE) and Relative Glycemic Index (RGI). IMO exhibited a hyperglycemic effect compared to dextrose as indicated by a GGE of 1.35 g and an RGI of 27.0 g. The responses to IMO of both active GLP-1 and GIP were similar to that of dextrose. The paradoxical hyperglycemic response despite robust insulin and incretin secretion requires further investigation.

Natural polysaccharides cellulose, hemicelluloses, inulin etc., galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) play a significant role in the improvement of gut microbiota balance and human health. These polysaccharides prevent pathogen adhesion that stimulates the immune system and gut barrier function by servicing as fermentable substrates for the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota plays a key role in the fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs) fibres. Moreover, the gut microbiota is responsible for the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate, propionate and butyrate. Acetate is the most abundant and it is used by many gut commensals to produce propionate and butyrate in a growth-promoting cross-feeding process. The dietary fibres affect the gut microbiome and play vital roles in signaling pathways. The SCFAs, acetate, butyrate, and propionate have been reported to affect on metabolic activities at the molecular level. Acetate affects the metabolic pathway through the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) and free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFAR2/GPR43) while butyrate and propionate transactivate the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorsγ (PPARγ/NR1C3) and regulate the PPARγ target gene Angptl4 in colonic cells of the gut. The FFAR2 signaling pathway regulates the insulin-stimulated lipid accumulation in adipocytes and inflammation, however peptide tyrosine-tyrosine (PPY) and glucagon-like peptide 1 regulates appetite. The NDCs via gut microbiota dependent pathway regulate glucose homeostasis, gut integrity and hormone by GPCR, NF-kB, and AMPK-dependent processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Feed additives that can modulate the poultry gastrointestinal tract and provide benefit to bird performance and health have recently received more interest for commercial applications. Such feed supplements offer an economic advantage because they may directly benefit poultry producers by either decreasing mortality rates of farm animals, increasing bird growth rates, or improve feed efficieny. They can also limit foodborne pathogen establishment in bird flocks by modifying the gastrointestinal microbial population. Prebiotics are known as non-digestible carbohydrates that selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria, thus improving the overall health of the host. Once prebiotics are introduced to the host, 2 major modes of action can potentially occur. Initially, the corresponding prebiotic reaches the intestine of the chicken without being digested in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract but are selectively utilized by certain bacteria considered beneficial to the host. Secondly, other gut activities occur due to the presence of the prebiotic, including generation of short-chain fatty acids and lactic acid as microbial fermentation products, a decreased rate of pathogen colonization, and potential bird health benefits. In the current review, the effect of prebiotics on the gastrointestinal tract microbiome will be discussed as well as future directions for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypothesis that links the increase in the intake of plant-source foods to a decrease in colorectal cancer (CRC) risk has almost 50 years. Nowadays, systematic reviews and meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies confirmed the association between dietary patterns and CRC risk, in which the non-digestible carbohydrates (NDC) from plant-source foods are known to play beneficial effects. However, the mechanisms behind the physicochemical properties and biological effects induced by NDC on the decrease of CRC development and progression remain not fully understood. NDC from plant-source foods consist mainly of complex carbohydrates from plant cell wall including pectin and hemicellulose, which vary among foods in structure and in composition, therefore in both physicochemical properties and biological effects. In the present review, we highlighted the mechanisms and described the recent findings showing how these complex NDC from plant-source foods are related to a decrease in CRC risk through induction of both physicochemical effects in the gastrointestinal tract, fermentation-related effects, and direct effects resulting from the interaction between NDC and cellular components including toll-like receptors and galectin-3. Studies support that the definition of the structure-function relationship—especially regarding the fermentation-related effects of NDC, as well as the direct effects of these complex carbohydrates in cells—is crucial for understanding the possible NDC anticancer effects. The dietary recommendations for the intake of NDC are usually quantitative, describing a defined amount of intake per day. However, as NDC from plant-source foods can exert effects that vary widely according to the NDC structure, the dietary recommendations for the intake of NDC plant-source foods are expected to change from a quantitative to a qualitative perspective in the next few years, as occurred for lipid recommendations. Thus, further studies are necessary to define whether specific and well-characterized NDC from plant-source foods induce beneficial effects related to a decrease in CRC risk, thereby improving nutritional recommendations of healthy individuals and CRC patients.

Natural polysaccharides with health benefits are characterized by a large structural diversity and differ in building blocks, linkages, and lengths. They contribute to human health by functioning as anti-adhesives preventing pathogen adhesion, stimulate immune maturation and gut barrier function, and serve as fermentable substrates for gut bacteria. Examples of such beneficial carbohydrates include the human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). Also, specific non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), such as galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are being produced with this purpose in mind, and are currently added to infant formula to stimulate the healthy development of the newborn. They mimic some functions of HMO, but not all. Therefore, many research efforts focus on identification and production of novel types of NDCs. In this review, we give an overview of the few NDCs currently available [GOS, FOS, polydextrose (PDX)], and outline the potential of alternative oligosaccharides, such as pectins, (arabino)xylo-oligosaccharides, and microbial exopolysaccharides (EPS). Moreover, state-of-the-art techniques to generate novel types of dietary glycans, including sialylated GOS (Sia-GOS) and galactosylated chitin, are presented as a way to obtain novel prebiotic NDCs that help shaping the infant microbiome.

Probiotics have gained significant attention in recent years due to the growing awareness of physical health and well-being. However, maintaining high concentrations of probiotics throughout the product's shelf life and during the gastrointestinal tract is crucial for ensuring their health-promoting effects. After determining an optimal formulation through a fractional factorial model, this study optimizes probiotic Bacillus Clausii delivery through spray-drying microencapsulation using a novel maltodextrin-alginate-inulin (MDX-ALG-IN) formulation (optimized ratio: 7:2:1). Notably, this formulation exclusively comprises non-digestible carbohydrates, marking a novel approach in probiotic encapsulation. Achieving a high Product Yield (51.06 %) and Encapsulation Efficiency (80.53 %), the study employed SEM for morphological analysis, revealing an irregular form and extensive surface in dentations characteristic of maltodextrin involvement. With a low moisture content of 3.02 % (±0.23 %) and 90.52 % solubility, the powder displayed exceptional properties. Probiotic viability remained robust, surviving up to 60 % even after 180 days at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 37 °C. Thermal characterization unveiled microcapsule resilience, exhibiting a glass transition temperature (Tg) at 138.61 °C and a melting point of 177.28 °C. The study systematically addresses crucial aspects of microencapsulation, including formulation optimization, morphological characteristics, and powder properties. Notably, the MDX-ALG-IN microcapsules demonstrated stability in simulated gastrointestinal conditions, indicating potential application for supplements and complex food matrices. In summary, this research contributes to microencapsulation understanding, emphasizing the MDX-ALG-IN formulation's efficacy in preserving probiotic viability across production stages and simulated digestive processes., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

Human milk (HM) is the golden standard for nutrition of newborn infants. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are abundantly present in HM and exert multiple beneficial functions, such as support of colonization of the gut microbiota, reduction of pathogenic infections and support of immune development. HMO-composition is during lactation continuously adapted by the mother to accommodate the needs of the neonate. Unfortunately, for many valid reasons not all neonates can be fed with HM and are either totally or partly fed with cow-milk derived infant formulas, which do not contain HMOs. These cow-milk formulas are supplemented with non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs) that have functional effects similar to that of some HMOs, since production of synthetic HMOs is challenging and still very expensive. However, NDCs cannot substitute all HMO functions. More efficacious NDCs may be developed and customized for specific groups of neonates such as pre-matures and allergy prone infants. Here current knowledge of HMO functions in the neonate in view of possible replacement of HMOs by NDCs in infant formulas is reviewed. Furthermore, methods to expedite identification of suitable NDCs and structure/function relationships are reviewed as in vivo studies in babies are impossible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural polysaccharides with health benefits are characterized by a large structural diversity and differ in building blocks, linkages, and lengths. They contribute to human health by functioning as anti-adhesives preventing pathogen adhesion, stimulate immune maturation and gut barrier function, and serve as fermentable substrates for gut bacteria. Examples of such beneficial carbohydrates include the human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). Also, specific non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), such as galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are being produced with this purpose in mind, and are currently added to infant formula to stimulate the healthy development of the newborn. They mimic some functions of HMO, but not all. Therefore, many research efforts focus on identification and production of novel types of NDCs. In this review, we give an overview of the few NDCs currently available [GOS, FOS, polydextrose (PDX)], and outline the potential of alternative oligosaccharides, such as pectins, (arabino)xylo-oligosaccharides, and microbial exopolysaccharides (EPS). Moreover, state-of-the-art techniques to generate novel types of dietary glycans, including sialylated GOS (Sia-GOS) and galactosylated chitin, are presented as a way to obtain novel prebiotic NDCs that help shaping the infant microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prebiotics are either natural or synthetic non-digestible (non-)carbohydrate substances that boost the proliferation of gut microbes. Undigested fructooligosaccharides in the large intestine are utilised by the beneficial microorganisms for the synthesis of short-chain fatty acids for their own growth. Although various food products are now recognized as having prebiotic properties, several others, such as almonds, artichoke, barley, chia seeds, chicory, dandelion greens, flaxseeds, garlic, and oats, are being explored and used as functional foods. Considering the benefits of these prebiotics in mineral absorption, metabolite production, gut microbiota modulation, and in various diseases such as diabetes, allergy, metabolic disorders, and necrotising enterocolitis, increasing attention has been focused on their applications in both food and pharmaceutical industries, although some of these food products are actually used as food supplements. This review aims to highlight the potential and need of these prebiotics in the diet and also discusses data related to the distinct types, sources, modes of action, and health benefits.

β(2 → 1)-β(2 → 6) branched graminan-type fructans (GTFs) and β(2 → 1) linear fructans (ITFs) possess immunomodulatory properties and protect human intestinal barrier function, however the mechanisms underlying these effects are not well studied. Herein, GTFs and ITFs effects with different degree of polymerization (DP) values on tight junctions (TJs) genes CLDN - 1 , - 2 and - 3 , CDH1 , OCLN and TJP1 were studied in Caco-2 gut epithelial cells, under homeostatic and inflammatory conditions. Also, cytokine production in dendritic cells (DCs) was studied. Higher DP fructans decreased the expression of the pore forming CLDN - 2. Higher DP GTFs enhanced CLDN - 3 , OCLN , and TJP - 1. Fructans prevented mRNA dysregulation of CLDN - 1 , - 2 and - 3 induced by the barrier disruptors A23187 and deoxynivalenol in a fructan-type dependent fashion. The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines MCP-1/CCL2, MIP-1α/CCL3 and TNFα by DCs was also attenuated in a fructan-type dependent manner and was strongly attenuated by DCs cultured with medium of Caco-2 cells which were pre-exposed to fructans. Our data show that specific fructans have TJs and DCs modulating effects and contribute to gut homeostasis. This might serve to design effective dietary means to prevent intestinal inflammation. [Display omitted] • Higher DP fructans decrease expression of the intestinal tight junction protein claudin-2. • Only graminan-type fructans prevent DON-induced dysregulation of claudin-1. • Graminan-type fructans attenuate pro-inflammatory cytokines in dendritic cells. • Cell culture medium from gut cells exposed to the studied fructans attenuates inflammatory responses in dendritic cells. • Graminan- and inulin-type fructans might contribute to prevention of intestinal inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) are a class of organic fatty acids that consist of 1 to 6 carbons in length. They are primary end-products which arise from non-digestible carbohydrates (NDC) fermentation of colonic bacteria. They are the fundamental energy sources for post-weaning ruminants. SCFA represent the major carbon flux of diet through the gut microbiota to the host. They also play a vital role in regulating cell expansion and gene expression of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Recently, remarkable progresses have been made in understanding the immunomodulatory effects of SCFA and their interactions with the host. The processes involved in this study encompassed inflammasome activation, proliferation of lymphocytes, and maturation of intestinal mucosal immunity maturation. It is important to note that the establishment and maturation of intestinal mucosal immune system are intricately connected to the barrier function of intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) and the homeostasis of gut microbiota. Thus, insights into the role of SCFA in enteric mucosal immunoreaction of calves will enhance our understanding of their various regulatory functions. This review aims to analyze recent evidence on the role of SCFA as essential signaling molecules between gut microbiota and animal health. Additionally, we provide a summary of current literature on SCFA in intestinal mucosal immune responses of dairy calves., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be constructed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 He and Dong.)

Abstract Iron deficiency anemia is a common problem of all ages in developed and developing countries. Various strategies are used by governments and industries to solve this problem. One of these strategies is iron fortification. In the present study, novel iron microcapsules were designed without any changes in their effects on other ingredients in infant milk formulas. Resistant starch-pectin-iron and pectin-iron microparticles were added to infant powdered milk models. Furthermore, animal studies were carried out. Fecal iron and calcium were assessed using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, respectively. Then, apparent iron and calcium absorptions were calculated. Sensory evaluation was carried out on reconstituted powdered milks. Results showed that iron absorption in rats treated by pectin-coated particles was significantly higher than that in controls with no significant effects on calcium absorption. No significant differences were observed in sensory evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are the major products of carbohydrate fermentation by gut bacteria. Different carbohydrates are associated with characteristic SCFA profiles although the mechanisms are unclear. The individual SCFA profile may determine any resultant health benefits. Understanding determinants of individual SCFA production would enable substrate choice to be tailored for colonic SCFA manipulation. To test the hypothesis that the orientation and position of the glycosidic bond is a determinant of SCFA production profile, a miniaturized in vitro human colonic batch fermentation model was used to study a range of isomeric glucose disaccharides. Diglucose α(1-1) fermentation led to significantly higher butyrate production (p < 0.01) and a lower proportion of acetate (p < 0.01) compared with other α bonded diglucoses. Diglucose β (1-4) also led to significantly higher butyrate production (p < 0.05) and significantly increased the proportions of propionate and butyrate compared with diglucose α (1-4) (p < 0.05). There was no significant effect of glycosidic bond configuration on absolute propionate production. Despite some differences in the SCFA production of different glucose disaccharides, there was no clear relationship between SCFA production and bond configuration, suggesting that other factors may be responsible for promoting selective SCFA production by the gut microbiota from different carbohydrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-digestible carbohydrates are an unavoidable component in a pig's diet, as all plant-based feeds contain different kinds of non-digestible carbohydrates. The major types of non-digestible carbohydrates include non-starch polysaccharides (such as cellulose, pectin, and hemicellulose), resistant starch, and non-digestible oligosaccharides (such as fructo-oligosaccharide and xylo-oligosaccharide). Non-digestible carbohydrates play a significant role in balancing the gut microbial ecology and overall health of the swine by promoting the production of short chain fatty acids. Although non-digestible carbohydrates are rich in energy, swine cannot extract this energy on their own due to the absence of enzymes required for their degradation. Instead, they rely on gut microbes to utilize these carbohydrates for energy production. Despite the importance of non-digestible carbohydrate degradation, limited studies have been conducted on the swine gut microbes involved in this process. While next-generation high-throughput sequencing has aided in understanding the microbial compositions of the swine gut, specific information regarding the bacteria involved in non-digestible carbohydrate degradation remains limited. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate and comprehend the bacteria responsible for the breakdown of non-digestible carbohydrates in the gut. In this mini review, we have discussed the major bacteria involved in the fermentation of different types of non-digestible carbohydrates in the large intestine of swine, shedding light on their potential roles and contributions to swine nutrition and health., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Pandey, Kim, Cho, Song, Doo, Kim, Keum, Kwak, Ryu, Choi, Kang, Lee and Kim.)

The rate and extent of in situ digesta transit after ingestion of diets containing dietary fibres differing in their susceptibility to large intestine fermentation were investigated. One hundred and twenty rats were fed diets containing 7.5% cellulose, inulin, potato fibre or maize starch for 3 days, then the same diets with titanium dioxide (TiO2) for 3 days, followed by diets without TiO2 for 2 days. In all diets, TiO2 ratios rapidly increased within 24 h and reached a maximum level in duodenum, caecum and colon within 2–3 days. Inulin, potato fibre and maize starch-fed rats showed higher levels of caecal short-chain fatty acids, lower faecal polysaccharide concentrations, and reduced faecal output than the rats fed cellulose. Inulin was highly susceptible to caecal microbial fermentation compared to the other dietary fibres. Transit of these dietary fibres through the GI tract was rapid, and the rate of digesta transit was not affected by dietary fibre fermentability in the large intestine.

Following an application from Beneo-Orafti SA, Sensus BV and Cosucra-Groupe Warcoing SA, submitted for authorisation of a health claim pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of Belgium, the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) from inulin and a reduction of post-prandial glycaemic responses. Non-digestible carbohydrates including FOS are resistant to hydrolysis and absorption in the small intestine and do not contribute to post-prandial glycaemia. This opinion applies to non-digestible carbohydrates (e.g. non-starch polysaccharides, resistant oligosaccharides and resistant starch) which should replace sugars in foods or beverages in order to obtain the claimed effect. The Panel considers that the food constituent, non-digestible carbohydrates, which is the subject of the health claim, and the food constituent (i.e. sugars) that non-digestible carbohydrates should replace in foods or beverages, are both sufficiently characterised in relation to the claimed effect. The Panel considers that a reduction of post-prandial glycaemic responses might be a beneficial physiological effect. In weighing the evidence, the Panel took into account that consumption of non-digestible carbohydrates results in reduced post-prandial blood glucose (and insulinaemic) responses compared with the consumption of sugars on a weight-by-weight basis owing to the non-digestibility in the small intestine and to a decrease in the amount of available carbohydrates, and that the consumption of foods/drinks in which non-digestible carbohydrates replaced sugars induced lower post-prandial glycaemic and insulinaemic responses than sugar-containing foods/drinks. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between the consumption of foods/beverages containing non-digestible carbohydrates instead of sugar and a reduction of post-prandial glycaemic responses as compared to sugar-containing foods/beverages.