Dose-response effects of inulin on the faecal short-chain fatty acids content and mineral absorption of formula-fed infants.

摘要

Purpose: The objective of this study was to examine the dose-response effect of inulin on mineral absorption and faecal short-chain fatty acids concentration in formula-fed infants. Design/methodology/approach: The effects of inulin on faecal short-chain fatty acids and minerals absorption in 36 healthy, formula-fed infants given three different doses of inulin (0.75 g/d, 1.00 g/d, and 1.25 g/d) were studied using complete randomized design. Acetic, butyric, propionic and lactic acids were analysed using gas chromatography. Findings: No significant (p<0.05) difference was observed in the infant faecal short-chain fatty acids contents during the basal period, the intake period and the washout period. A significant (p<0.05) increase in per cent apparent absorption, per cent apparent retention and net retention of iron were seen in infants supplemented with 1 g/day inulin. A significant (p<0.05) increase in per cent apparent retention and net retention of magnesium was also seen in infants supplemented with 0.75, 1 and 1.25 g/day inulin. A significant (p<0.05) increase in per cent apparent absorption and net retention of zinc was seen in infants supplemented with only 0.75 g/day inulin. No significant improvement in calcium, or copper absorption or retention was observed in all the doses of inulin studied. Originality/value: Most previous studies were conducted on adults and adolescents..