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The effect of resistant starch on colon function in humans
1Sub-department of Human Gastrointestinal Physiology and Nutrition, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield.
The British Journal of Nutrition
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Resistant starch (RS) from foods like Cornflakes did not significantly alter colon function markers such as transit time or stool consistency compared to low-RS Rice Krispies. However, Cornflakes intake led to increased breath hydrogen production.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Human Nutrition
- Microbiology
Background:
- Resistant starch (RS) resists human digestion and can be fermented by colonic bacteria.
- RS may influence colon function similarly to non-starch polysaccharides.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of resistant starch (RS) on human colon function.
- To compare the physiological impact of high-RS (Cornflakes) versus low-RS (Rice Krispies) diets.
Main Methods:
- Eight volunteers consumed high-RS (Cornflakes) and low-RS (Rice Krispies) supplements for one week each.
- Measurements included whole-gut transit time, stool characteristics, flatulence, and serial breath hydrogen levels.
- Dietary intake of digestible starch, non-starch polysaccharides, and other macronutrients was standardized.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed in stool mass, frequency, consistency, ease of defecation, or transit time between the two diets.
- No significant differences in reported flatulence were noted.
- Significantly higher breath hydrogen production (area under the curve) was recorded with the Cornflakes supplement.
Conclusions:
- Resistant starch (RS) intake, within the tested range, did not significantly alter major colon function parameters in healthy volunteers.
- Increased fermentation, indicated by breath hydrogen, occurs with higher RS intake, suggesting altered colonic bacterial activity.