Galactooligosaccharides and Gut Bacteria
Author Information
Author(s): Davis Lauren M. G., Martínez Inés, Walter Jens, Goin Caitlin, Hutkins Robert W.
Primary Institution: University of Nebraska
Hypothesis
What is the impact of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) on the fecal microbiota of healthy humans?
Conclusion
Consumption of GOS leads to a significant increase in bifidobacteria in the human gut microbiota.
Supporting Evidence
- GOS consumption led to five- to ten-fold increases in bifidobacteria in half of the subjects.
- Significant increases in the family Bifidobacteriaceae were observed at doses of 5.0 g and 10.0 g GOS.
- Consumption of GOS did not alter bacterial diversity of the fecal samples.
Takeaway
Eating certain fibers called galactooligosaccharides can help good bacteria in your tummy grow, especially a type called bifidobacteria.
Methodology
The study used high throughput multiplex community sequencing of 16S rDNA tags to analyze fecal samples from participants consuming varying doses of GOS.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to individual differences in gut microbiota composition.
Limitations
The response to GOS varied significantly among individuals, with some showing no response.
Participant Demographics
Eighteen healthy adults participated in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website