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Updated: Apr 3, 2026
07:15
An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota
Published on: July 31, 2019
10.6K
Improving healthspan via changes in gut microbiota and fermentation
Michael J Keenan1, Maria L Marco2, Donald K Ingram3
1Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
Age (Dordrecht, Netherlands)
|September 16, 2015
Summary
Dietary resistant starch can improve healthspan in older adults by positively impacting the gut microbiome and mimicking caloric restriction effects. This fiber source enhances gut health and metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Microbiology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Dietary fiber intake is often insufficient in the elderly population.
- Resistant starch, a type of fiber, significantly alters gut microbiota and fermentation in aging animal models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of dietary resistant starch on the intestinal microbiome and healthspan in the elderly.
- To explore mechanisms by which resistant starch may improve aging-related health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on resistant starch, gut microbiota, and aging.
- Analysis of animal models demonstrating resistant starch effects on aging and gut health.
Main Results:
- Resistant starch enhances gut microbiota composition and short-chain fatty acid production.
- It improves gut barrier function and increases beneficial gut peptides involved in metabolic regulation.
- Resistant starch mimics caloric restriction effects, including improved xenobiotic metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Dietary resistant starch shows significant potential for improving healthspan in the elderly.
- Its benefits are mediated through multiple pathways, including gut microbiome modulation and metabolic improvements.
- Resistant starch represents a promising dietary strategy to promote healthy aging.
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