Over millennia, the microbiota has co-evolved with its host (us, humans!). It benefits us in many ways: digestion, production of nutrients, detoxification, protection against pathogens, metabolites production such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and regulation of the immune system.
Dietary components, including fiber, positively influence the bacterial composition and microbial-derived metabolites and, thereby, our health.
A recent study has reported the effect of soluble chia fiber on gut microbiota [link al estudio]. The good news is that 1) human digestive enzymes do not hydrolyze the chia soluble fibers, but gut microbes act upon it, producing metabolites like short-chain fatty acids. And 2), the study reports some “probiotic strains” have significantly increased after intake of chia fiber, including Enterococcus and Lactobacillus. This finding is in line with previous studies and indicates that certain types of soluble fibers, including inulin, beta-glucan, and GOS, can increase the number (quantity?) of “probiotic strains”.
This is the first study that describes the prebiotic effect on the gut microbiota of chia fiber. There is a limited number on the relation between dietary fiber, production of SCFA, and metabolic regulation requires further investigation. BENEXIA is investigating further this matter, with its product XIA POWDER 435 LM that is a Fiber extract from Chia. We will keep you informed!
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