A Marine-Derived, Multi-mineral Supplement Influences Bacterial Fermentation and Short Chain Fatty Acid Profile In...

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Nutritional Science
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Calcium supplementation influences gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is linked to altered SCFA levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of Aquamin, a marine-derived calcium supplement, on gut microbial function in an ex vivo IBS model.
• To assess changes in SCFA, lactate, pH, and gas production.

Main Methods:

• An ex vivo simulation model using fecal inoculum from an IBS patient was employed.
• Aquamin was administered at doses of 6 and 30 mg/mL.
• Measurements included SCFA, lactate, pH, gas production, and microbiota composition.

Main Results:

• Aquamin increased acetate (8%) and propionate (24%) SCFA production at 30 mg/mL.
• A significant decrease in lactate production was observed at 30 mg/mL.
• Colonic fluid pH increased, with no significant changes in gas production or microbiota composition.

Conclusions:

• Aquamin demonstrated potential in modulating gut microbial metabolites, specifically increasing beneficial SCFAs and reducing lactate.
• These findings suggest Aquamin may play a role in optimizing gastrointestinal microbial function, particularly in contexts relevant to IBS.