This monthly feature provides an overview of some of the latest studies on prebiotics. We’ll share key findings and insights from the studies. Have a study you’d like us to cover? Email GPA Communications Director Traci Kantowski traci@prebioticassociation.org.

Evaluation of Antioxidant Capacity and Gut Microbiota Modulatory Effects of Different Kinds of Berries

This study takes a new look at the health benefits of berries. The researchers identified the anthocyanin profiles, evaluated and compared the antioxidant capacities and gut microbiota modulatory effects of nine berries, namely blackberry, black goji berry, blueberry, mulberry, red Chinese bayberry, raspberry, red goji berry, strawberry and white Chinese bayberry. The results showed that most of the berries were able to improve antioxidant status and all of the berries significantly impacted the microbiome. They enriched the short chain fatty acid (SCFA producing bacteria and inhibited harmful bacteria.

Key takeaways Berries offer multiple health benefits and though they are most known for the antioxidant benefits. This article suggests they may also function as prebiotics via their high phenolic content.

Access the study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35624885/

Chen J, Shu Y, Chen Y, Ge Z, Zhang C, Cao J, Li X, Wang Y, Sun C. Evaluation of Antioxidant Capacity and Gut Microbiota Modulatory Effects of Different Kinds of Berries. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022 May 22;11(5):1020. doi: 10.3390/antiox11051020. PMID: 35624885.

The effect of increasing intestinal short-chain fatty acid concentration on gut permeability and liver injury in the context of liver disease – a systematic review

A systematic review assessing the impact of SCFA supplementation on liver injury and intestinal permeability was conducted. All forms of intervention that specifically increased intestinal SCFA concentration and measured both liver injury and permeability were included. 17 studies were included 2 of which were conducted in humans. 14 of the 17 studies showed improved permeability after supplementation of SFCA supplements including butyrate, probiotics and prebiotics.

Key takeaways: SFCAs produced by the microbiome assist in maintaining tight junction integrity which might protect the liver as well. All of the studies found that SFCA supplementation ameliorated liver injury and improved gut permeability.

Access the study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35612373/

Pohl K, Moodley P, Dhanda A. The effect of increasing intestinal short-chain fatty acid concentration on gut permeability and liver injury in the context of liver disease – a systematic review. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2022 May 25. doi: 10.1111/jgh.15899. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 35612373.

Prebiotics and the Human Gut Microbiota: From Breakdown Mechanisms to the Impact on Metabolic Health

This review focuses on the mechanisms by which the intestinal microbiota and the SCFAs breakdown complex carbohydrates. Additionally, they discuss personalized health responses to prebiotic ingestion.

Key takeaway:

The authors discuss the mechanisms by which prebiotics assert their health benefits. They highlight that the translation of the theory and research into clinical applications is in its infancy and requires an interdisciplinary personalized approach.

Access the study: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/10/2096

Bedu-Ferrari C, Biscarrat P, Langella P, Cherbuy C. Prebiotics and the Human Gut Microbiota: From Breakdown Mechanisms to the Impact on Metabolic Health. Nutrients. 2022 May 17;14(10):2096. doi: 10.3390/nu14102096. PMID: 35631237.

This list was curated by Susan Hewlings, Ph.D., R.D., Director of Scientific Affairs Nutrasource/GRAS Associates