Prebiotics from marine macroalgae for human and animal health applications.
Mar Drugs
; 8(7): 2038-64, 2010 Jul 01.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20714423
ABSTRACT
The marine environment is an untapped source of bioactive compounds. Specifically, marine macroalgae (seaweeds) are rich in polysaccharides that could potentially be exploited as prebiotic functional ingredients for both human and animal health applications. Prebiotics are non-digestible, selectively fermented compounds that stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial gut microbiota which, in turn, confer health benefits on the host. This review will introduce the concept and potential applications of prebiotics, followed by an outline of the chemistry of seaweed polysaccharides. Their potential for use as prebiotics for both humans and animals will be highlighted by reviewing data from both in vitro and in vivo studies conducted to date.
Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Polissacarídeos
/
Alga Marinha
/
Prebióticos
Limite:
Animals
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Mar Drugs
Assunto da revista:
BIOLOGIA
/
FARMACOLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2010
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Irlanda