[Effect of plant gums (swelling materials) on intestinal absorption in experimental animals]

The influence of various gums on the intestinal absorption of glucose and maltose was investigated in the experimental animal. The alterations in the concentrations of sodium and potassium were determined additionally. The following gums were used: alginate (sodium, potassium, calcium salts), Carrageenan, guaran, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose. The absorption of glucose (concentration: 5% = 278 mmol/l) and maltose (concentration: 5% = 139 mmol/l) was not influenced by the addition of gums (concentration: 1%-2%). The hydrolysis of maltose was not inhibited also. Sodium was absorbed from the intestinal lumen if the concentration was higher than 120-150 mmol/l, otherwise sodium was excreted into the lumen. Potassium was absorbed if the potassium concentration was raised above 6-10 mmol/l, otherwise potassium was excreted into the lumen. The neutral gums did not influence the alterations in ion concentration. The gums tested do not influence the digestion and absorption of maltose or glucose. The acid gums are present in the small intestine in the form of their sodium salts. In the large intestine, sodium is exchanged for potassium.