Development of a prebiotic blend to influence <i>in vitro</i> fermentation effects, with a focus on propionate, in the gut

ABSTRACT Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) derived from the human gut microbiota, and in particular propionate, may beneficially influence metabolic processes such as appetite regulation. Development of prebiotics that induce high propionate levels during fermentation is desirable. A total 11 candidate were screened to investigate their characteristics, with a focus on production mixed anaerobic batch culture faecal bacteria. Further this, continuous 3-stage colonic model (simulating colon) was used evaluate changes microbial ecology, lactate SCFA three 50:50 blends, comprising both slow rapidly fermented prebiotics. In culture: xylo-oligosaccharide, polydextrose ?-gluco-oligosaccharide associated greatest increase propionate. Polydextrose, ?-gluco-oligosaccharide, ?-1,4 glucan oat fibre induced reductions acetate ratio. The most bifidogenic oligosaccharides. Fermentation blend inulin arabinoxylan, through model, substantial sustained release colon, if replicable vivo, could potentially blood glucose, lipids regulation, however, dietary intervention studies are needed. Bifidogenic effects also observed for arabinoxylan an synthesis butyrate lactate, thus indicating wider prebiotic potential.