Prebiotic effect of oligofructose after 2 weeks supplementation with a low dose: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study

Abstract

Inulin and oligofructose are prebiotic dietary fibers which affect gut microbiota and thereby host health. We aimed to demonstrate that 2.5 g/d oligofructose can lead to a significant increase in bifidobacteria thereby contributing to host health.64 volunteers were randomized to consume 2.5 g/d Orafti® oligofructose or placebo for 14 days followed by a 4 week wash-out period and then crossed-over to the other intervention. Bifidobacteria and affect were assessed at the beginning and end of each intervention period. Furthermore, digestive function was documented daily.Bifidobacterium spp. increased significantly upon 2.5 g/d oligofructose intake compared to placebo (p = 0.016). Furthermore, stool frequency significantly increased during oligofructose compared to placebo (p = 0.0204) intake. With respect to affect, no significant changes were observed.This study is the first to demonstrate a significant increase in bifidobacteria coinciding with increased stool frequency after a very low dose of 2.5 g/d chicory oligofructose.

Keywords

• Prebiotic
• Fructan
• Bifidobacteria
• Bowel function
• Oligofructose
• Affect