Dose‐response effects of inulin on the faecal short‐chain fatty acids content and mineral absorption of formula‐fed infants

Abstract

Purpose The objective of this study is to examine the dose‐response effect of inulin on mineral absorption and faecal short‐chain fatty acids concentration in formula‐fed infants. Design/methodology/approach The effects of inulin on faecal short‐chain fatty acids and minerals absorption in 36 healthy, formula‐fed infants given three different doses of inulin (0.75g/d, 1.00g/d, and 1.25g/d) were studied using complete randomized design. Acetic, butyric, propionic and lactic acids were analysed using gas chromatography. Findings No significant ( p <0.05) difference was observed in the infant faecal short‐chain fatty acids contents during the basal period, the intake period and the washout period. A significant ( p <0.05) increase in per cent apparent absorption, per cent apparent retention and net retention of iron were seen in infants supplemented with 1g/day inulin. A significant ( p <0.05) increase in per cent apparent retention and net retention of Magnesium was also seen in infants supplemented with 0.75, 1 and 1.25g/day inulin. A significant ( p <0.05) increase in per cent apparent absorption and net retention of Zinc was seen in infants supplemented with only 0.75g/day inulin. No significant improvement in calcium, or copper absorption or retention was observed in all the doses of inulin studied. Originality/value Most previous studies were conducted on adults and adolescents.