Synergistic synbiotic containing fructooligosaccharides and Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 alleviates chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis in mice.

Intestinal mucositis is a commonly reported side effect in oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics have been investigated as alternative therapeutic approaches against intestinal mucositis due to their well-known anti-inflammatory properties and health benefits to the host. Previous studies showed that the potential probiotic Lactobacillus delbrueckii CIDCA 133 and the prebiotic Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) alleviated the 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucosa damage. Based on these previous beneficial effects, this work evaluated the anti-inflammatory property of the synbiotic formulation containing L. delbrueckii CIDCA 133 and FOS in mice intestinal mucosa inflammation induced by 5-FU. This work showed that the synbiotic formulation was able to modulate inflammatory parameters, including reduction of cellular inflammatory infiltration, gene expression downregulation of Tlr2, Nfkb1, and Tnf, and upregulation of the immunoregulatory Il10 cytokine, thus protecting the intestinal mucosa from epithelial damage caused by the 5-FU. The synbiotic also improved the epithelial barrier function by upregulating mRNA transcript levels of the short chain fatty acid (SCFA)-associated GPR43 receptor and the occludin tight junction protein, with the subsequent reduction of paracellular intestinal permeability. The data obtained showed that this synbiotic formulation could be a promising adjuvant treatment to be explored against inflammatory damage caused by 5-FU chemotherapy.

Effect of Dietary Growth Promoter Supplementations on the Serum Biochemistry and Morphometric Characteristics of Tibia Bone in Broiler Chicken

Bone mineralization is considered an essential source of minerals for metabolic needs that provide strength and hardness to the bone tissues and in birds its development can be enhanced by the use of dietary supplements. The present study was executed to evaluate the influence of prebiotic, probiotic and antibiotic on the morphometric aspects of tibia bone in broilers. One-hundred and sixty-one-day-old broiler chick were divided randomly into four groups (n=40) with 4 replicates (n=10 in each replicate). Group-I fed with only corn based basal diet and served as controlled group. Group-II with antibiotic supplement (Zinc bacitracin 0.04%), Group-III with probiotic supplement (lactobacillus 0.1%) & Group-IV with prebiotic supplement (mannan oligosaccharide 0.1%). On the 35th day, two birds were selected randomly from each replicate and slaughtered to record the morphometric parameters of both right and left tibia bones from each bird. The findings showed that the length, weight, thickness of lateral and medial wall, tibiotarsal index of bone and bone ash percentage of supplemented groups have had significant (p<0.05) difference when compared to that of the controlled group. The weight/length index in birds supplemented with prebiotic and probiotic was significantly higher (p<0.05) than in the antibiotic supplemented and control group. Medullary canal diameter of all the supplemented groups was significantly lower (p<0.05) than the control group. No significant (p>0.05) difference of robusticity index and diaphysis diameter was observed among various groups. A significant (p<0.05) low level of Alkaline Phosphatase while higher level of Calcium and Phosphorus was recorded in the supplemented groups compared to that of the control group. In conclusion, the use of prebiotic and probiotic as growth promoter can exhibit some underline mechanisms in the form of enhancement of bone quality, density and characteristics in broiler chicks as compared to common antibiotics.(AU)

Essential oils and prebiotic on broiler diets as feed additives / Óleos essenciais e prebióticos como aditivos em dietas para frangos de corte

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of a combination of essential oils, prebiotics and antibiotics on broiler production. The treatments consisted of a normal diet meeting the nutritional requirements, and diets with a 5% reduction of nutritional requirements, supplemented or not with antibiotics (En+Sal) (10 g ton-1 enramycin and 125 g ton-1 salinomycin) or a blend of essential oils (EOFOS) (oregano, anise and lemon) plus fructooligosaccharides (125 g ton-1). A total of 1,152 male one-day-old broilers were randomized by weight and distributed into a 2*3 factorial design, consisting of six treatments with each treatment containing eight replicates of 24 birds per experimental unit. The Student-Newman-Keuls test was performed at 5% probability. Broiler performance was evaluated at 10, 21 and 42 days, intestinal morphometry was evaluated at 21 days, microbiological cecum counts at 33 days, blood parameters at 35 days and carcass and cuts yield at 42 days of age. Broilers fed reduced diets had a reduction in performance (P < 0.05). There was an interaction (P < 0.05) between diet type and prebiotics for jejunum villus height and villus height:crypt depth ratios for all intestinal segments. There was no effect (P > 0.05) of growth promoters and diet type on the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium populations within the gastrointestinal tract. There were no differences for duodenum or ileum villus heights (P > 0.05). Broilers fed EOFOS showed higher villus height in the jejunum at 21 days. There were no effects on blood parameters of different diets and growth promoters (P > 0.05), nor on carcass and cuts yield, abdominal fat and relative liver weight (P > 0.05). Broilers receiving the normal diet with EOFOS showed higher villus height in the jejunum at 21 days when compared to the normal diet with antibiotics and the normal diet without growth promoters. However, there were no effects of growth promoters and diet type on broiler performance at 42 days.(AU)

O objetivo com este estudo foi avaliar o uso de uma combinação de óleos essenciais, prebióticos e antibióticos na produção de frangos de corte. Os tratamentos consistiram em uma dieta normal que atende as exigências nutricionais e uma dieta com redução de 5% das exigências nutricionais suplementada ou não com antibióticos (En+Sal) (10 g ton-1 enramicina e 125 g ton-1 salinomicina) ou um blend de óleos essenciais (EOFOS) (orégano, anis e limão) + frutooligossacarídeos (125 g ton-1). Um total de 1.152 frangos machos de um dia de idade foram casualizados no peso e distribuídos em um arranjo fatorial 2*3, consistindo em seis tratamentos com cada tratamento contendo oito repetições de 24 aves por unidade experimental. Os dados foram analisados pelo SAS - Versão 9.1, o teste Student Newman Keuls foi realizado a 5% de probabilidade. Aos 10, 21 e 42 dias, avaliou-se o desempenho dos frangos, a morfometria intestinal aos 21 dias, contagem microbiológica de ceco aos 33 dias, parâmetros sanguíneos aos 35 dias e rendimento de carcaça e cortes aos 42 dias de idade. Os frangos alimentados com dietas com redução nas exigências apresentaram uma redução no desempenho (P < 0.05). Ocorreu interação (P < 0.05) entre tipo de dieta e promotores de crescimento para a altura de vilo no jejuno e para a relação vilo:cripta em todos os segmentos intestinais. Não ocorreu efeito dos promotores de crescimento e tipo de dieta na população de Lactobacillus e Bifidobactérias do trato gastrointestinal. Não ocorreu diferença na altura de vilos no duodeno (P > 0.05). Aves alimentadas com EOFOS demonstraram maior altura de vilos no jejuno aos 21 dias. Não houve efeitos nos parâmetros sanguíneos de diferentes dietas e promotores de crescimento (P > 0.05), nem no rendimento de carcaça e cortes, gordura abdominal e peso relativo do fígado (P > 0.05). Frangos de corte que receberam dieta normal com EOFOS apresentaram maior altura das vilosidades no jejuno aos 21 dias quando comparados à dieta normal com antibióticos e à dieta normal sem promotores de crescimento. Entretanto, não houve efeito dos promotores de crescimento e tipo de dieta no desempenho dos frangos aos 42 dias.(AU)

Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum Increases Ferroportin Expression in the Colon of Anemic Growing Rats.

Studies have reported a positive effect of prebiotics on the bioavailability of iron. This study evaluated the effect of partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) on iron absorption mechanisms in anemic rats. Male Wistar rats were fed 75g American Institute of Nutrition Rodent Diets for growth, pregnancy and lactation (AIN93-G) without iron for three weeks in order to induce iron deficiency anemia. Then they were fed a control diet (n = 12; without fiber) or a diet with 7.5% of PHGG (n = 12), both without iron. Food intake, body growth and the feed efficiency coefficient (FEC) were measured. The animals were euthanized after two weeks of treatment. The weight of the organs, the pH of the cecal content, and the hepatic iron and ferroportin expression in the cecum, duodenum, and liver were assessed. The intake of PHGG reduced food intake without affecting body growth, and there was a difference between the groups regarding the FEC (p = 0.026), with the highest value found in the PHGG group. The weight of the cecal content increased (p ≤ 0.001) and the pH of the cecal content was significantly lower in the PHGG group. The intake of PHGG significantly increased ferroportin expression in the cecum; however, the difference was not significant in the duodenum and the liver. PHGG seems to have a positive influence on iron absorption through transporter expression, and structural and physiological changes in the colon of anemic growing animals.

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) as a Food Supplement: Health-Promoting Benefits of Fructooligosaccharides.

Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius), a perennial plant of the family Asteraceae native to the Andean regions of South America, is an abundant source of fructooligosaccharides (FOS). This comprehensive review of the literature addressed the role of yacon supplementation in promoting health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. According to several preclinical and clinical trials, FOS intake favors the growth of health-promoting bacteria while reducing pathogenic bacteria populations. Moreover, the endproducts of FOS fermentation by the intestinal microbiota, short chain fatty acids (SCFA), act as substrates or signaling molecules in the regulation of the immune response, glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism. As a result, glycemic levels, body weight and colon cancer risk can be reduced. Based on these findings, most studies reviewed concluded that due to their functional properties, yacon roots may be effectively used as a dietary supplement to prevent and treat chronic diseases.

Effects of prebiotic supplementation on the expression of proteins regulating iron absorption in anaemic growing rats.

Prebiotics may increase intestinal Fe absorption in anaemic growing rats. The present study evaluated the effects of high-performance (HP) inulin and oligofructose on factors that regulate Fe absorption in anaemic rats during the growth phase. Male Wistar rats aged 21 d of age were fed AIN-93G ration without Fe for 2 weeks to induce Fe-deficiency anaemia. The rats were fed on day 35 a control diet, or a diet with 10 % HP inulin, or a diet with 10 % oligofructose, without Fe supplementation. The animals were euthanised after 2 weeks, and segments of the duodenum, caecum, colon and liver were removed. The expression levels of proteins in the intestinal segments were assessed using Western blotting. The levels of serum, urine and liver hepcidin and the concentrations of IL-10, IL-6 and TNF-α in the caecum, colon and liver were measured using the ELISA test. HP inulin increased the expression of the divalent metal transporter 1 protein in the caecum by 162 % (P= 0·04), and the expression of duodenal cytochrome b reductase in the colon by 136 % (P= 0·02). Oligofructose decreased the expression of the protein ferroportin in the duodenum (P= 0·02), the concentrations of IL-10 (P= 0·044), IL-6 (P= 0·036) and TNF-α (P= 0·004) in the caecum, as well as the level of urinary hepcidin (P< 0·001). These results indicate that prebiotics may interfere with the expression of various intestinal proteins and systemic factors involved in the regulation of intestinal Fe absorption in anaemic rats during the growth phase.

Development of prebiotic food products and health benefits

In the current context from the nutritional and epidemiological point of view, it can be seen an occurrence increase of ChronicNon-Communicable Diseases, as well as the inflammatory ones, ordinarily associated to a wrong feed, poor in fibers andrich in fats and simple and refined carbohydrates. This view has evidenced a progressive increase of diseases, highlighting theimportance of colonic microbiota as an active mechanism of infectious processes control and modulation of immunologic answer.Therefore, constant the worries related to recovering and maintenance of healthy intestines, stocked with prebiotic nutrientsthat support the survival of beneficial health agents. This way, researchers and the segment of food industry has encouragedthe development of products with prebiotic properties, looking for the health promotion, treatment and diseases prevention,besides the strengthening on the competitive market. This article will embrace the contents about physiologic effects of themain known prebiotic, their potential in relation to fermentatives bacterias, new developed products and used methodologiesto the recognition of pre and probiotic functions.

Desenvolvimento, avaliação e aplicação de micropartículas simbióticas produzidas por spray chilling / Development, evaluation and application of symbiotic microparticles produced by spray chilling technology

Foram produzidas micropartículas simbióticas com carreador de natureza lipídica, obtidas por spray chilling. Como materiais ativos foram utilizadas duas cepas de micro-organismos probióticos (L. acidophilus-LA e L. rhamnosus-LR), dois prebióticos (inulina e polidextrose) e gordura de palma e palmiste interesterificada. Estudou-se a resistência destes probióticos ao processo aplicado, o comportamento das micropartículas sólido lipídicas (MSLs) frente ao fluido gástrico e intestinal simulados e suas viabilidades durante 120 dias de armazenamento à -18, 7 e 22°C sob vácuo ou umidade relativa controlada. A caracterização morfológica, granulometria, análise térmica (DSC), atividade de água, espectroscopia na região do infravermelho (FTIR) e difração de raios-X (XRPD) foram estudados. Spray chilling configurou-se como processo adequado aos probióticos, devido à baixa perda de células viáveis durante a obtenção das micropartículas, sendo que não foi observado interferência da ausência, presença e do tipo de prebiótico. Foram obtidas MSLs esféricas com superfície relativamente uniforme, e com tamanho médio entre 62,4±2,8 a 69,6±5,1 µm, sendo que não houve diferença significativa entre as formulações. As análises de difração de raios-X indicaram que não ocorreram alterações polimórficas durante o armazenamento refrigerado das MSLs. [...] As micropartículas lipídicas produzidas mostraram-se aptas como ingrediente alimentício, porém no sorvete não atenderam as premissas de proteção e extensão de contagens apropriadas do probiótico. As MSLs também foram incorporadas em polpas de fruta, abacate e melão, neste tipo de matriz as MSLs conferiram proteção ao micro-organismo pois aumentaram sua viabilidade em relação aos micro-organismos livres.

Symbiotic microparticles were produced with a lipid carrier, obtained by spray chilling technology. In this study were used two strains of probiotic (L. acidophilus-LA and L. rhamnosus-LR) and two prebiotics (inulin and polydextrose) as active or core materials. The resistance of these probiotics to the spray chilling process was evaluated, as well as the viability of the solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) during the exposition to the simulated gastric and intestinal fluids and stability during 120 days of storage at -18, 7 and 22°C, in vacuum or controlled relative humidity. Morphology characterization, particle size, water activity, thermal analysis (DSC), infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRPD) were studied. Spray chilling process was configured as a suitable technology to probiotics due to low loss of viable cells in processing of the particle, and no interference was observed from the presence/absence and type of prebiotic component. MSLs were obtained with relatively uniform spherical surface, and average size between 62.4 ± 2.8 µm to 69.6 ± 5.1 µm, there was no significant difference between formulations. Analyses of X-ray diffraction indicated that there were no polymorphic changes during refrigerated storage of SLMs. [...] The lipid microparticles produced were shown to be suitable as a food ingredient, but the ice cream did not meet the assumptions of protection and extension of appropriate probiotic counts. The MSLs were also incorporated in the fruit pulp, avocado and melon, in this application the SLMs provided protection to the micro-organism increasing the probiotic viability in relation to the free microorganisms.

Safety of a dual potential prebiotic system from Mexican agave "Metlin® and Metlos®", incorporated to an infant formula for term newborn babies: a randomized controlled trial.

RATIONALE: Infant formulae are being supplemented with probiotics, prebiotics, or symbiotic despite uncertainties regarding their efficacy. Mexican agave is an interesting source of fructans with particular features and with potential prebiotic effects. MATERIAL AND METHODS: RCT in 600 healthy term babies (20 ± 7 days), allocated to receive standard infant formula (control) or infant formula added with a dual prebiotic system "Metlin® and Metlos®", from Mexican agave. Primary outcomes include stools frequency, stools consistency, gastrointestinal intolerance (frequency of abdominal distension, flatulency, regurgitations, vomiting). Secondary outcomes include changes on weight and height along the study and frequency of dermatologic problems (eczema). RESULTS: In 66,120 days of total follow-up, there were no differences on the frequency of stools passage (Human Milk: 3.8 ± 2.4 evacuations per day; Pro + Metlin + Metlos 3.6 ± 2.0; Pro + Metlin 3.6 ± 2; only Pro 3.4 ± 2.3¸ only formula 3.4 ± 2.0; p NS). Consistency of stools was similar between human milk and prebiotics supplemented groups. Also the frequency of gastrointestinal symptoms was significantly low between these groups. CONCLUSIONS: Fructans derivate from agave and added to infant formula are safe and well tolerated by Mexican healthy term babies.

Effects of probiotic yoghurt and prebiotic utilization on performance and some haematological parameters in broiler chickens

Background: With increasing concern about antibiotics resistance, the ban on sub-therapeutic antibiotics usage in Europe and the potential for a ban in the United States, there is an increasing interest in finding alternatives to antibiotics in poultry production. Probiotics are one of the approaches that have a potential to reduce chances of infections in poultry and subsequent contamination of poultry products. Prebiotics are defined as non-digestible food components/ingredients which have positive effect on host in their selective growth and/or activation of certain number of bacterial strains present in intestines. The phenomenon of probiotics and prebiotics to prevent the growth of pathogens and to enhance the growth and performance of the host bird has lead to a widespread interest in these two biotics. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of probiotic yoghurt and prebiotic utilization on performance and some blood parameters of broiler chickens. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 150 one day old broiler chickens (Cobb 500) divided into 5 equal groups: control (T1), 3.0 g prebiotic per kilogram basal diet (T2), 5.0 g probiotic yoghurt per liter of water and 3.0 g prebiotic per kilogram basal diet (T3), 10.0 g probiotic yoghurt per liter of water and 3.0 g prebiotic per kilogram basal diet (T4) and 20.0 g probiotic yoghurt per liter of water and 3.0 g prebiotic per kilogram basal diet (T5). Performance was assessed by measuring the weekly feed consumption and weight gain. The food conversion ratio (FCR) was also calculated for each group. All chickens were bled at the end of experiment. The body weight gain significantly (P < 0.05) improved in T5 treatment group than other groups. There was no significant difference in weight gain among the treatment groups during the period from 1-14 days of age (P < 0.05). During 15 to 42 days of age the highest weight gain was in T5 followed by T4, T3, T2 and T1 and differences were significant between the treatments. There was no significant difference in feed intake among the groups. At the end of experiment the FCR in T5 group differed significantly (P < 0.05) from other groups. The amounts of RBC, WBC, and PCV are lower in control group than other groups, but not significantly (P > 0.05). The ratio of heterophile to lymphocyte was higher in control group than other groups, significantly (P < 0.05). Discussion: The results of this study showed that dietary probiotic and prebiotic supplementation improve broiler performance significantly. The positive effect of probiotic and prebiotic on weight gain and FCR is in agreement with other reports. The higher and improved body weight gain in probiotic group might be due to better digestive or microbial enzymatic activity; also probiotics can improve broiler performance by increasing the villous height in the small intestine. The birds supplied 20.0 g probiotic yoghurt per liter of water and 3.0 g prebiotic per kilogram basal diet gained significantly (P < 0.05) higher weight than other dietary treatments, which indicate that supplementation of higher level of probiotic yoghurt or prebiotic might be effective to improve body weight gain and feed conversion ratio in broiler chickens. Adding probiotic diet could be inhibited the nutritional stress or any stress which causes an increase in H/L ratio.

Synbiotic therapy decreases microbial translocation and inflammation and improves immunological status in HIV-infected patients: a double-blind randomized controlled pilot trial.

BACKGROUND: HIV-infection results in damage and dysfunction of the gastrointestinal system. HIV enteropathy includes pronounced CD4+ T-cell loss, increased intestinal permeability, and microbial translocation that promotes systemic immune activation, which is implicated in disease progression. A synbiotic is the combination of probiotics and prebiotics that could improve gut barrier function. Our study goal was to determine whether the use of a synbiotic, probiotics or a prebiotic can recover immunological parameters in HIV-infected subjects through of a reduction of microbial translocation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind controlled study was performed; twenty Antiretroviral treatment-naïve HIV-infected subjects were subgrouped and assigned to receive a synbiotic, probiotics, a prebiotic, or a placebo throughout 16 weeks. RESULTS: We had no reports of serious adverse-events. From baseline to week 16, the synbiotic group showed a reduction in bacterial DNA concentrations in plasma (p = 0.048). Moreover, the probiotic and synbiotic groups demonstrated a decrease in total bacterial load in feces (p = 0.05). The probiotic group exhibited a significant increment of beneficial bacteria load (such as Bifidobacterium; p = 0.05) and a decrease in harmful bacteria load (such as Clostridium; p = 0.063). In the synbiotic group, the CD4+ T-cells count increased (median: +102 cells/µL; p = 0.05) and the level of Interleukin 6 cytokine decreased significantly (p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed a significant increase in CD4+ T lymphocyte levels in the synbiotic group, which could delay the initiation of antiretroviral therapy and decrease costs in countries with limited resources.

Microbiota benefits after inulin and partially hydrolized guar gum supplementation: a randomized clinical trial in constipated women.

INTRODUCTION: Prebiotics positively affect gut microbiota composition, thus improving gut function. These properties may be useful for the treatment of constipation. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the tolerance and effectiveness of a prebiotic inulin/partially hydrolyzed guar gum mixture (I-PHGG) for the treatment of constipation in females, as well as its influence on the composition of intestinal microbiota and production of short chain fatty acids. METHODS: Our study enrolled 60 constipated female health worker volunteers. Participants reported less than 3 bowel movements per week. Volunteers were randomized to treatment with prebiotic or placebo. Treatment consisted of 3 weeks supplementation with 15 g/d IPHGG (fiber group) or maltodextrin (placebo group). Abdominal discomfort, flatulence, stool consistency, and bowel movements were evaluated by a recorded daily questionnaire and a weekly interview. Changes in fecal bacterial population and short chain fatty acids were assessed by real-time PCR and gas chromatography, respectively. RESULTS: There was an increased frequency of weekly bowel movements and patient satisfaction in both the fiber and placebo groups with no significant differences. Total Clostridium sp significantly decreased in the fiber group (p = 0.046) and increased in the placebo group (p = 0.047). There were no changes in fecal short chain fatty acid profile. CONCLUSIONS: Consumption of I-PHGG produced clinical results comparable to placebo in constipated females, but had additional protective effects on gut microbiota by decreasing the amount of pathological bacteria of the Clostridium genera.

Agentes tróficos na dieta de leitões desmamados sobre a atividade das enzimas digestivas e o desempenho / Trofic agents in the diet of weaned pigs on the activity of the digestive enzymes and the performance

Foi avaliado o efeito da adição de glutamina, ácidos graxos poliinsaturados ou parede celular de levedura à dieta de leitões desmamados sobre a atividade das enzimas pancreáticas (lipase, amilase e tripsina) e da mucosa intestinal (dipeptidase, sacarase e maltase) e sobre o desempenho. Foram utilizados 45 leitões desmamados e distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial, com quatro dietas (T1 - dieta basal (DB); T2 - DB + 1% de glutamina; T3 - DB + 0,2% de parede celular de levedura; T4 - DB + 5% de óleo de peixe) e duas idades de abate (sete e 14 dias pós-desmame). O desempenho foi medido nas duas primeiras semanas pós-desmame. A adição de 1% de glutamina na dieta dos leitões aumentou a atividade específica e total da amilase, e atividade total da tripsina na segunda semana pós-desmame. Os demais aditivos não alteraram a atividade das enzimas digestivas nos leitões. Também foi observado aumento na atividade total da lipase, e atividade específica da tripsina e maltase em função da idade pós desmame. De modo geral, as atividades das enzimas digestivas estiveram correlacionadas positivamente, com exceção da dipeptidase que não se correlacionou com nenhuma outra enzima. Foi observada correlação positiva entre ganho de peso e atividades da lipase e da amilase. Os aditivos incluídos na dieta não influenciam o desempenho dos leitões no pós-desmame.

It was evaluated the effect of the addition of glutamine, polyunsaturated fatty acids or cellular wall of yeast to the diet of weaned pigs on the activity of the pancreatic enzymes (lipase, amylase and trypsin) and the intestinal mucous membrane (dipeptidase, sucrase and maltase) and on the performance. Forty-five weaned pigs were used and distributed in a randomized block design, in factorial outline, with four diets (T1 - basal diet (BD); T2 - BR + 1% glutamine; T3 - BD + 0,2% cellular wall of yeast; T4 - BD + 5% fish oil) and two slaughter ages (seven and 14 days post weaning). The performance was measured in the first two weeks post-weaning. The addition of 1% glutamine in the diet of pigs increased the specific and total activity of the amylase, and total activity of the trypsin in the second week post weaning. The others supplements not change the activity of the digestive enzymes in the pigs. Also an increase was observed in the total activity of the lipase, and specific activity of the trypsin and maltase in function of the age post-weaning. In general, the activities of the digestive enzymes were correlated positively, except for the dipeptidase that was not correlated with any other enzyme. Positive correlation was observed between weight gain and activity of the lipase and of the amylase. The supplements included in the diet not influence the performance of weaned pigs.

Probióticos e prebióticos na prevenção e no tratamento de doenças em lactentes e crianças / Probiotics and prebiotics in prevention and treatment of diseases in infants and children

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto do uso de probióticos e prebióticos na saúde das crianças. FONTES DOS DADOS: Foram pesquisados os bancos de dados MEDLINE e LILACS, selecionando-se artigos relevantes em inglês e francês. SÍNTESE DOS DADOS: O leite humano é rico em oligossacarídeos prebióticos e pode conter probióticos. Não existem dados sugerindo que a adição de probióticos a fórmulas para lactentes possa ser prejudicial, mas as evidências de sua eficácia são insuficientes para que seja recomendada. Visto que dados sugerem que a adição de oligossacarídeos prebióticos específicos pode reduzir infecções e atopia em lactentes saudáveis, sua adição parece razoável. Os benefícios a longo prazo dos pro e prebióticos para o sistema imunológico em desenvolvimento ainda precisam ser comprovados. Probióticos selecionados reduzem a duração da diarreia infecciosa em 1 dia, mas faltam evidências quanto à prevenção, exceto na diarreia associada a antibióticos. Alguns probióticos específicos previnem a enterocolite necrosante, e outros micro-organismos podem ser benéficos nos casos de gastrite por Helicobacter pylori e de cólica do lactente. Não há evidências suficientes para recomendar o uso de probióticos na prevenção e no tratamento da dermatite atópica. A utilização de probióticos nos casos de constipação, síndrome do intestino irritável, doença inflamatória intestinal e infecções extraintestinais requer mais estudos. CONCLUSÕES: A duração da administração, a dosagem microbiana e as espécies utilizadas necessitam de maior validação, tanto para probióticos quanto para prebióticos. Alegações de saúde injustificadas são uma grande ameaça ao conceito de pro e prebióticos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of probiotics and prebiotics on the health of children. SOURCES: MEDLINE and LILACS were searched for relevant English and French-language articles. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Human milk is rich in prebiotic oligosaccharides and may contain some probiotics. No data suggest that addition of probiotics to infant formula may be harmful, but evidence of its efficacy is insufficient for its recommendation. Since data suggest that addition of specific prebiotic oligosaccharides may reduce infections and atopy in healthy infants, their addition to infant formula seems reasonable. Long-term health benefits of pro- and prebiotics on the developing immune system remain to be proven. Selected probiotics reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea by 1 day, but evidence in prevention is lacking, except in antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Some specific probiotics prevent necrotizing enterocolitis, and other microorganisms may be beneficial in Helicobacter pylori gastritis and in infantile colic. Evidence is insufficient to recommend probiotics in prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis. The use of probiotics in constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and extra-intestinal infections requires more studies. CONCLUSIONS: Duration of administration, microbial dosage, and species used need further validation for both pro- and prebiotics. Unjustified health claims are a major threat for the pro- and prebiotic concept.

Probiotics and prebiotics in prevention and treatment of diseases in infants and children.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of probiotics and prebiotics on the health of children. SOURCES: MEDLINE and LILACS were searched for relevant English and French-language articles. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: Human milk is rich in prebiotic oligosaccharides and may contain some probiotics. No data suggest that addition of probiotics to infant formula may be harmful, but evidence of its efficacy is insufficient for its recommendation. Since data suggest that addition of specific prebiotic oligosaccharides may reduce infections and atopy in healthy infants, their addition to infant formula seems reasonable. Long-term health benefits of pro- and prebiotics on the developing immune system remain to be proven. Selected probiotics reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea by 1 day, but evidence in prevention is lacking, except in antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Some specific probiotics prevent necrotizing enterocolitis, and other microorganisms may be beneficial in Helicobacter pylori gastritis and in infantile colic. Evidence is insufficient to recommend probiotics in prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis. The use of probiotics in constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and extra-intestinal infections requires more studies. CONCLUSIONS: Duration of administration, microbial dosage, and species used need further validation for both pro- and prebiotics. Unjustified health claims are a major threat for the pro- and prebiotic concept.

Agentes tróficos na dieta de leitões desmamados sobre a atividade das enzimas digestivas e o desempenho / Trofic agents in the diet of weaned pigs on the activity of the digestive enzymes and the performance

Foi avaliado o efeito da adição de glutamina, ácidos graxos poliinsaturados ou parede celular de levedura à dieta de leitões desmamados sobre a atividade das enzimas pancreáticas (lipase, amilase e tripsina) e da mucosa intestinal (dipeptidase, sacarase e maltase) e sobre o desempenho. Foram utilizados 45 leitões desmamados e distribuídos em delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial, com quatro dietas (T1 - dieta basal (DB); T2 - DB + 1% de glutamina; T3 - DB + 0,2% de parede celular de levedura; T4 - DB + 5% de óleo de peixe) e duas idades de abate (sete e 14 dias pós-desmame). O desempenho foi medido nas duas primeiras semanas pós-desmame. A adição de 1% de glutamina na dieta dos leitões aumentou a atividade específica e total da amilase, e atividade total da tripsina na segunda semana pós-desmame. Os demais aditivos não alteraram a atividade das enzimas digestivas nos leitões. Também foi observado aumento na atividade total da lipase, e atividade específica da tripsina e maltase em função da idade pós desmame. De modo geral, as atividades das enzimas digestivas estiveram correlacionadas positivamente, com exceção da dipeptidase que não se correlacionou com nenhuma outra enzima. Foi observada correlação positiva entre ganho de peso e atividades da lipase e da amilase. Os aditivos incluídos na dieta não influenciam o desempenho dos leitões no pós-desmame.(AU)

It was evaluated the effect of the addition of glutamine, polyunsaturated fatty acids or cellular wall of yeast to the diet of weaned pigs on the activity of the pancreatic enzymes (lipase, amylase and trypsin) and the intestinal mucous membrane (dipeptidase, sucrase and maltase) and on the performance. Forty-five weaned pigs were used and distributed in a randomized block design, in factorial outline, with four diets (T1 - basal diet (BD); T2 - BR + 1% glutamine; T3 - BD + 0,2% cellular wall of yeast; T4 - BD + 5% fish oil) and two slaughter ages (seven and 14 days post weaning). The performance was measured in the first two weeks post-weaning. The addition of 1% glutamine in the diet of pigs increased the specific and total activity of the amylase, and total activity of the trypsin in the second week post weaning. The others supplements not change the activity of the digestive enzymes in the pigs. Also an increase was observed in the total activity of the lipase, and specific activity of the trypsin and maltase in function of the age post-weaning. In general, the activities of the digestive enzymes were correlated positively, except for the dipeptidase that was not correlated with any other enzyme. Positive correlation was observed between weight gain and activity of the lipase and of the amylase. The supplements included in the diet not influence the performance of weaned pigs.(AU)

The effects of lactulose supplementation to enteral feedings in premature infants: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the safety and prebiotic effects of lactulose in preterm infants. STUDY DESIGN: This was a prospective, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, single-center study in 23- to 34-weeks premature infants. The study group received 1% lactulose, and control infants received 1% dextrose in all feeds (human milk or formula). RESULTS: Twenty-eight infants participated (15 lactulose, 13 placebo). Small doses of lactulose appeared to be safe and did not cause diarrhea. Premature infants on lactulose had more Lactobacilli-positive stool cultures that appeared earlier with larger number of colonies. The lactulose group tended to have less intolerance to enteral feedings, to reach full oral feeds earlier, and to be discharged home earlier. They also tended to have fewer episodes of late-onset sepsis, lower Bell stage necrotizing enterocolitis, and their nutritional laboratory indices were better, especially calcium and total protein. CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study supports the safety of supplementing preterm infants' feeds with low doses of lactulose. It also demonstrated trends that may suggest positive prebiotic effects.