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Colonic food: pre- and probiotics
1Lund University, Ideon Research Center, Sweden.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|January 14, 2000
Summary
The colonic mucosa relies on nutrients produced by beneficial gut flora from prebiotics. Lactobacillus plantarum enhances this process, preserving nutrients and reducing harmful bacteria in the gut.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- The colonic mucosa requires nutrients from the lumen, supplied by a commensal flora.
- Prebiotics, including fibers and proteins, serve as substrates for nutrient production by gut bacteria.
- Probiotic flora is often deficient in industrialized populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Lactobacillus plantarum in colonic nutrient supply and pathogen reduction.
- To evaluate the impact of L. plantarum on the gut microbiome and its metabolic functions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on colonic nutrition and probiotic functions.
- Analysis of L. plantarum's capabilities in nutrient preservation and pathogen elimination.
- Assessment of L. plantarum-fermented oat consumption in human volunteers.
Main Results:
- Lactobacillus plantarum preserves nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants while eliminating toxins and pathogens.
- L. plantarum exhibits superior metabolism of semiresistant oligofructans compared to other bacteria.
- Consumption of L. plantarum-fermented oat significantly reduces potentially pathogenic microorganisms in healthy volunteers.
Conclusions:
- Lactobacillus plantarum plays a crucial role in supporting colonic health through nutrient synthesis and pathogen control.
- Maintaining adequate probiotic flora, potentially through L. plantarum supplementation, is vital for gut health, especially in populations with flora deficiencies.