IngentaConnect A study of fructo oligosaccharides in the prevention of traveller...

Abstract:

Background

: Prebiotic carbohydrates selectively stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the human colon. These bacteria form part of the gut's inherent defence against invading pathogens. Aim

: To test the effectiveness of fructo oligosaccharides in preventing travellers' diarrhoea. Methods

: A total of 244 healthy subjects, travelling to high and medium risk destinations for travellers' diarrhoea, took part in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The protocol comprised a preliminary week for recording bowel habit by diary, a 2-week pre-holiday period with the diary and consumption of 10 g of fructo oligosaccharides or placebo daily, followed by a 2-week holiday with continuation of treatment and diary. A post-study questionnaire was completed by all subjects on their return to the UK. Results

: The consumption of fructo oligosaccharides led to a small (6%; P < 0.02) increase in stool frequency in the pre-holiday period and gave a significantly better sense of `well-being' during the holiday, although subjects reported more flatulence. There were non-significant decreases in episodes of diarrhoea with 20% on placebo and 11% on fructo oligosaccharides recording episodes in the post-study questionnaire (P=0.08) and 46% placebo, 38% fructo oligosaccharides recording episodes in the diary (P > 0.1). No change in bowel frequency, consistency or stool size was recorded. Conclusion

: Travel to high risk areas increases diarrhoea. Fructo oligosaccharides alone are not sufficient to prevent this, although do have some benefits for the subjects.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2001.01043.x

Affiliations: 1: Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK 2: Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Reading, UK 3: Institute of Child Health, London, UK

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A study of fructo oligosaccharides in the prevention of travellers' diarrhoea