BIOACTOR and PIXIENCE start collaboration on validation of skin imaging technology in nutrition studies
BIOACTOR and PIXIENCE start collaboration on validation of skin imaging technology in nutrition studies
Press release
BIOACTOR and PIXIENCE announce the start of a collaboration to test and validate an innovative skin imaging and testing technology in the context of a clinical study with a nutritional bioactive.
BIOACTOR and PIXIENCE announce the start of a collaboration to test and validate an innovative skin imaging and testing technology in the context of a clinical study with a nutritional bioactive.
PIXIENCE has developed an innovative skin image capturing device (C-Cube) and image analysis software (QuickScale) for the evaluation of several skin parameters, including the evaluation of 3D images.
BIOACTOR has expertise in the clinical validation of health effects of natural compounds and is now setting-up a clinical testing platform around nutritional actives for skin health.
PIXIENCE is developing the C-Cube Clinical Edition and BIOACTOR will carry-out beta testing of the Clinical Edition in a new clinical study on an oral nutritional product. PIXIENCE will provide technical assistance to BIOACTOR for the skin image analysis in this new clinical study.
Sebastien Mangeruca, CEO of PIXIENCE comments:
“We have initially developed our C-Cube and QuickScale suite of technologies for the evaluation of topical cosmetic products. BIOACTOR’s experience in running clinical studies for nutrition and its active programme around nutrition and skin health, makes them an ideal partner for testing and validating of our C-Cube Clinical Edition for nutrition studies”.
Hans van der Saag, CEO of BIOACTOR comments:
“BIOACTOR is delighted to work with PIXIENCE, as PIXIENCE has developed a best in class skin imaging and analysis technology that will allow us to further improve our skin health for nutrition platform. BIOACTOR wants to bring clinically backed innovation to the nutrition industry. BIOACTOR tests all of its products in scientifically robust human intervention studies, working with partners like PIXIENCE and the Department of Health and Nutrition of Maastricht University.”
About BIOACTOR
BIOACTOR, based in Maastricht, Netherlands, is a product development company that develops and supplies proprietary bioactive formulations to the health and sports nutrition industry. All BIOACTOR’s products are clinically tested, doping-free and from natural origin. The main focus areas are: gut microbiome, brain health, energy & vitality and skin health.
For more information, please contact:
BioActor
Hans van der Saag, CEO
Email: hans.vandersaag@bioactor.com
Pixience
Sébastien Mangeruca, CEO
Email: Sebastien.mangeruca@pixience.com
www.pixience.com
New publication: Naxus® consumption supports weight management through reduction of actual calorie intake in an ad libitum meal
New publication: Naxus® consumption supports weight management through reduction of actual calorie intake in an ad libitum meal
Press release
This randomized controlled crossover study showed Naxus®’ potential for appetite control and weight management. In a 21-day trial with healthy adult males, it was reported that consumption of a blend of Naxus® and inulin showed significantly lower calorie intake in an ad libitum meal (838 kcal vs. 1023 kcal) while reporting no changes in appetite. The blend was also shown to increase faecal SCFA concentrations. These results highlight Naxus®’s potential to transform appetite regulation.
Naxus®: clinically validated and developed by BioActor
Naxus® is a clinically validated arabinoxylan extract developed by BioActor, derived from wheat endosperm. It has been extensively studied and shown to have beneficial effects on microbiota composition, glycaemic control, and immune system function.
Naxus® promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, production of Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA) and improves glycaemic control by inducing GPR43 signaling which leads to reduced glucose peaks and improved insulin sensitivity (1, 2). It also strengthens the immune system through various mechanisms (3, 4, 5). It is a well-researched ingredient with significant potential for enhancing overall health and well-being.
The study: Chronic consumption of a blend of inulin and Naxus® reduces energy intake in an ad libitum meal but does not influence perceptions of appetite and satiety
Introduction
Two dominant bacterial strains account for more than 90% of the total bacterial gut community: Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes (6). They are widely believed to have important effects on the maintenance of normal intestinal homeostasis. Stressors associated with modern lifestyles (e.g. low fibre diet) can chronically change the bacterial gut composition and lead to the increase of more virulent microbes that adversely affect the health of the host.
Gut microbiota break down fibre from our diet and produce SCFAs such as propionate, acetate, and butyrate as a result. These metabolites lead to activation of a pathway that is linked to appetite reduction.
Specifically, propionate and acetate bind to a receptor called GPR43, which is found in cells lining our stomach and intestines (7). Activation of GPR43 leads to a cascade of signals eventually triggering the production of GLP-1 and PYY, two hormones involved in inducing satiety.
Naxus has previously been shown to increase propionate levels and GLP-1 production (8). In this current study, it was investigated whether a blend of Naxus® and inulin would positively affect satiety and energy intake.
Methods
In this cross-over study, the authors investigated the effect of inulin + Naxus® on 20 healthy adult males aged between 22 and 55 with no evidence of metabolic or cardiovascular disease.
Each participant took part in both control and intervention conditions, each lasting 21 days. Both the treatment and control groups had to drink two sachets of dry powder dissolved in 150 ml of water daily for 21 days. Therefore, the participants consumed the intervention (or the control) sachet for 21 days following a 14-day period washout, and afterwards the control (or the intervention) sachet for an additional 21 days. The intervention sachet contained 2 g of Naxus® and 2 g inulin, whereas the control sachet contained 4 g of maltodextrin.
After a 14-day wash-out period, participants switched to the other drink for another 21 days. The study comprised 4 visits to assess the participants’ perceived satiety and appetite, the energy intake in an ad libitum meal, faecal SCFA concentration, and the faecal microbiota composition.
Results
Appetite control and calorie intake
The study found that the mean energy intake in an ad libitum meal were significantly lower during the treatment period (838 kcal) compared to the control period (1023 kcal) (p<0.05).
Surprisingly, no changes in self-reported appetite were found. This difference between self-reported appetite and actual calorie intake is common in studies involving prebiotics, which is why measuring actual food intake provides a more objective measure.
Microbial composition
Significant changes in the microbial composition of fecal samples were noted, showing noteworthy increases in the abundance of Bifidobacteria (p = 0.035), Lactobacilli (p = 0.061), and Propionibacteria (p = 0.02).
Short-chain fatty acids
Moreover, these changes were accompanied by an elevation in the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are known to be associated with gut health. More specifically, an increase of acetate in the faeces sample was reported after 21 days (p=0.02). Acetate has the ability to independently influence appetite, which may explain why the participants consumed fewer calories during a single meal.
The hypothesized increase in propionate levels in the faeces sample was only minimal and not statistically significant (p=0.07). However, it is important to note that faecal propionate concentration alone does not reflect the absorption by the body. Additionally, the signals of propionate in the liver and bloodstream, which were not measured in this study, could potentially have a more significant impact on appetite regulation.
Triple effect
Overall, the results show that the chronic consumption of a blend of inulin and Naxus® leads to a reduction in energy intake, an increase in faecal SCFA concentrations, and an increase in beneficial gut bacteria.
Conclusion
This research indicates that a combination of inulin and Naxus® has positive effects on gut health and confirms existing data that Naxus® positively influences appetite control.
This publication also emphasizes the importance of new studies focusing on the effect of Naxus® on enhancing and tailoring nutritional products to promote satiety and help weight management.
About BioActor
BioActor, based in Maastricht, Netherlands is part of the Solabia Group and has developed a range of proprietary bioactive ingredients for the nutrition & healthcare industry. We focus on the development of innovative activities that address active living and healthy ageing. Our goal is to provide the nutrition & healthcare industry with science-based innovations that confer a real health benefit to the consumer.
Feel free to contact via info@bioactor.com for more information on the possibilities Naxus® has to offer. Further information can also be found on: www.naxus.nl or www.bioactor.com/products/naxus.
The importance of clinical research: An interview with BioActor's in-house scientists
The importance of clinical research: An interview with BioActor’s in-house scientists
Interview
In the world of clinical research and scientific exploration, BioActor stands out as a leading company dedicated to the development of health ingredients. At the forefront of BioActor’s research and development (R&D) efforts are Sanne Ahles and Maria Imperatrice, two certified clinical research scientists who play vital roles in the BioActor’s R&D initiatives. In this interview, Sanne and Maria provide insights into their responsibilities, experiences, and the challenges they face in their pursuit of scientific advancement.
Could you introduce yourself and your role within BioActor?
Sanne: My name is Sanne Ahles and I am a clinical research scientist at BioActor. In addition, I am a PhD candidate at the Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences at Maastricht University. I obtained my master’s degree in biomedical sciences after my internship at BioActor, after which I started working as a researcher.
Within BioActor, I am responsible for the research regarding our product Brainberry®, mainly focused on cognitive performance and vascular function. Over the years, I have designed, performed, analyzed, and reported various clinical studies, as well as written a systematic literature review.
Maria: My name is Maria Imperatrice and I also work as a clinical research scientist at BioActor. My research focus is Healthy Ageing and I’m currently performing two studies, Actiful2 and FEMMED, on two of our ingredients (Actiful® and Bonolive®) to evaluate their effect on exercise performance and postmenopausal symptoms, respectively.
I obtained my Bachelor Degree in Biology and my Master in Human Nutrition at the University “Federico II Di Napoli” in Italy, and my second master’s degree in Human Movement Sciences, with a specialisation in Sport and Nutrition, at Maastricht University.
At BioActor, we highly value clinical research because it plays a crucial role in providing evidence-based ingredients. What does clinical research entail and what do you like about it?
Sanne: Clinical research entails many different processes. This includes idea formation and initial literature searches, finding collaborations, obtaining ethics approval, practical work, data analyses, writing reports and papers, and communicating our results at national and international conferences.
Maria: A very interesting part for us is the ideation of the study. At BioActor we highly value innovation, which is why before starting a new clinical trial, we sit in brainstorming sessions with the R&D, marketing and sales teams to try to find white spaces in the current knowledge that can be of interest for the common public and different health domains. Once we find an interesting and never explored topic, the investigation can start.
Could you briefly take us through the process of a clinical trial?
Sanne: First, we initiate the idea formation process by brainstorming ideas that are relevant to customer questions or explore new areas of interest. Next, we perform literature searches to look for relevant papers, available data, and discover white space; topics that have not yet been researched.
Then we reach out to a collaborator, usually a professor at a University, to work with on developing a protocol for ethics review.
Maria: Once we obtain ethics approval, we dive into the practical phase of the clinical trial. This involves engaging with participants through visits where we collect data. This includes not only traditional data that we can extrapolate by collecting blood samples, but also performing tests to evaluate outcomes like reaction time, exercise capacity and mental flexibility.
It’s an interactive and rewarding experience that brings our research to life and allows us to better understand how our ingredients contribute to improving human health and develop evidence-based solutions. Afterwards, we analyze the data, draw conclusions, and share our findings through peer-reviewed publications. It’s a cool journey from start to finish!
Which of the above do you enjoy the most as a scientist?
Sanne: I enjoy collaborating with other companies or academic institutes! It’s such an incredible opportunity for us to broaden our knowledge and take our research to the next level. The energy and creativity that come from working with diverse teams is truly great.
Maria: The practical side of our work is always interesting! Collecting data means we get to perform visits with participants, and trust me, it’s never boring when you’re involved in a human study. The hands-on experience and the constant interaction with people make it such an exciting and fulfilling part of our job.
What is the biggest challenge in designing a study?
Sanne: In my opinion, the biggest challenge in designing a study is obtaining ethics approval, which is a rigorous and time-consuming process. We meticulously prepare documents explaining our research goals, methodology, and participant recruitment.
The ethical committee thoroughly reviews these documents, granting final approval for each aspect of our research.
Maria: I agree! Obtaining ethics approval is a significant challenge. However, this process is crucial for upholding ethical standards and protecting participant rights.
It also adds credibility to our research, fostering trust and allowing our findings to have a greater impact. Despite the challenges, navigating the ethics approval process is vital for conducting valuable and ethically sound research.
What is the best part of working at BioActor as a scientist?
Sanne & Maria: Being a scientist at BioActor is truly rewarding due to the chance to collaborate with a dynamic and passionate team of international colleagues. Within BioActor, we also see other aspects of the company besides R&D.
Our weekly company meetings allow us to really understand the bigger picture of the company and understand what each department entails. Consequently, we explore different facets of the company and gain valuable insights beyond our specific research and development focus.
BioActor: Using clinical science as the key to innovative ingredients
Sanne Ahles and Maria Imperatrice exemplify the passion and dedication that drive BioActor’s pursuit of finding new health effects of ingredients and advancing scientific innovation. From ideation to practical implementation, data analysis, and knowledge dissemination; they are pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and embracing the multidisciplinary nature of their work. Sanne and Maria contribute to BioActor’s mission of creating innovative and impactful solutions for a healthier life.
New publication demonstrates potential of Naxus® for alleviating IBD through gut microbiota alterations and increased butyrate production in mice
New publication demonstrates potential of Naxus® for alleviating IBD through gut microbiota alterations and increased butyrate production in mice
Press release
In the present study published in Molecules, the leading international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal of chemistry, the authors evaluated the potential positive effects of arabinoxylans (AX) contained in Naxus® on T-cell-dependent colitis. The findings of the study showed that Naxus® was able to induce peripherally induced Treg (pTreg) cells in the colon. This resulted in a reduction of T-cell-dependent chronic colitis due to the increased levels of butyrate-producing bacteria and luminal butyrate levels. These findings implicate that there could be a role for Naxus® in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Naxus®: a product researched and developed by BioActor
NAXUS®, an arabinoxylan extract obtained from the endosperm of wheat and is known for its beneficial health effects.
Wheat arabinoxylans (AX) are, in turn, a type of non-starch polysaccharide found in the cell walls of wheat grains. AXs are typically composed of a linear β (1-4)-linked xylan backbone with side residues of a-1-arabinofuranose units attached via α-(1-3) and/or α-(1-2) linkage.
Several clinical studies have shown that Naxus® is a powerful and well-tolerated prebiotic which induces a positive effect on the immune system and blood sugar levels by modulating the microbiome composition and Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA) production.
Effect of Naxus® on the Gut Microbiota Composition and Colonic Regulatory T Cells: in vitro and in vivo study
Introduction
The study was conducted by the group of Seita Chudan and the groups’ aim was to to understand the effect of wheat-derived arabinoxylan on gut microbiota, colonic regulatory T cells (Tregs) which are a specific subset of T cells that suppresses the immune response, and experimental colitis, this way, discussing the importance of a healthy gut microbiota and its connection to immune function and disease.
Many studies have looked at how AXs from wheat affect the bacteria and compounds in our gut, as well as a type of antibody present in the immune system called Immunoglobulin A (IgA).
However, not many studies have shown how AX might be helpful in treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), a condition that is characterized by inflammation of the GI tract. One recent study has looked at how AX might help with a type of IBD called DSS-induced colitis, but it’s still unclear if AX can prevent colitis.
Therefore, it is important to understand how wheat AXs affect the immune system and colitis, particularly in cases caused by the acquired immune system.
Methods
In this study, healthy and chronic colitis model mice were fed with food containing cellulose or Naxus® for 2–6 weeks and subjected to subsequent analysis of the gut microbiota composition and the number of colonic regulatory T cells in both groups.
Results
The results of this study indicate that Naxus® promotes the development of colonic pTregs and helps to reduce T-cell-dependent chronic colitis. The number of colonic regulatory T cells was significantly higher in the Naxus® group compared to the control group. These positive effects may be due to changes in the gut microbiota and increased levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), especially butyrate.
Table 1: Quantification of fecal SCFA in mice fed with food containing CE (cellulose) or AX (n = 8)
Butyrate is produced by certain bacteria in the Lachnospiraceae family, such as Eubacterium and Roseburia spp., Increases in Lachnospiraceae bacteria were linked to an increase in fecal butyrate concentration and a greater number of colonic Tregs in the Naxus®-fed mice.
In a T cell transfer model of chronic colitis, Naxus® was found to improve body weight loss and reduce colonic tissue inflammation, possibly through Treg induction. In addition, in this colitis model, wheat-derived arabinoxylan decreased TNFα production from type 1 helper T cells.
Therefore, Naxus® could be a useful prebiotic for preventing colitis by modifying the gut microbiota and shifting the metabolite production more towards butyrate.
Conclusion
This study shows that Naxus® has positive effects in a mouse model of chronic colitis. These improvements are linked to the alterations in the gut microenvironment by regulating the gut microbiota composition and increasing the number of colonic regulatory T cells, which could have implications for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and other immune-related diseases.
About BioActor
BioActor, based in Maastricht, Netherlands, is a product development company that has developed a range of proprietary bioactive ingredients for the nutrition & healthcare industry. The company focuses on the development of innovative activities that address active living and healthy ageing. The goal is to provide the nutrition & healthcare industry with science-based innovations that confer a real health benefit to the consumer.
Feel free to contact via info@bioactor.com for more information on the possibilities Naxus® has to offer.
Further information can also be found on: www.naxus.nl.
Exploring the ways blood sugar impacts your health
Exploring the ways blood sugar impacts your health
Are you aware that your blood sugar levels can change frequently, and it is important to maintain a stable level in order to improve your overall health? In this article, you will get acquainted with the reason your blood sugar levels might fluctuate, the effects of these changes on your health, and tips to help you on maintaining a stable blood sugar level.
Sugar and blood sugar levels
Sugars and carbohydrates are widely consumed substances across the world. They play a vital role in providing energy to the body and in regulating the blood sugar levels, or blood glucose levels, throughout the day (1).
After a meal, our metabolism works to keep our blood sugar levels steady. It does this by reducing the production of sugar (glucose) and promoting its storage as both short-term and long-term energy reserves (2).
The way your body metabolism responds after eating depends on the type of sugar you consume – simple sugars or complex sugars (1). Foods such as sugar-sweetened foods, beverages, and refined grains are a source of simple sugars, which are associated with higher increases on blood sugar levels.
Sources of complex sugars include minimally processed grains, legumes, and whole fruits. These are considered as a better option to maintain a steady blood sugar level.
When simple sugars and complex sugars are consumed in excess, or under consumed from processed food sources, acute and/or chronic conditions might arise as consequences.
What happens if your blood sugar levels are too high?
We already know that high blood sugar levels might have negative impacts on our health. Stress, some sort of medications, insulin resistance and an unhealthy lifestyle are the core of the increasing of the blood sugar levels (2,3).
Usually, people with higher blood sugar levels tend to experience an increase in feeling thirsty and they have a higher urinating frequency. Experiencing blurred vision, headaches, and fatigue are also symptoms.
On the long term, high blood sugar levels are associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other organ damages, like nerves, eyes, kidneys, and brain (3).
What happens if your blood sugar levels are too low?
On the other hand, the low blood sugar levels might also have negative impact on your health, occurring when you don’t eat enough carbohydrates according to your nutritional requirements or when the physical exercise is inappropriate in contrast to your food intake (2).
If your body is deprived of having enough fuel to sustain life, the central nervous system won’t be able to synthesize glucose, store, or concentrate glucose from the body circulation (4). As consequence, a brief decrease on the blood sugar levels might cause severe central nervous system dysfunction, and a prolonged decrease might cause cell death and coma.
Commonly, but depending on the severity and duration of the low blood sugar level, people tend to experience shakiness, confusion, irritability, sweating, and a fast heartbeat.
Strategies to maintain a stable blood sugar level
To begin with, it is important to understand what the normal blood sugar levels are. A fasting blood glucose level between 70 and 99 mg/dL is considered normal regardless of some variations caused by diet, physical exercise or medication as mentioned before (1–2).
When the blood sugar levels are higher or lower than this level some strategies need to be considered:
1. Implementing a healthy diet according to your nutritional needs is one of the strategies to maintain a stable blood sugar levels (5).
Specifically, consuming high in fibre foods such as foods rich in whole grains as source of arabinoxylans seems to be a good adding to a healthy diet along with fruits and vegetables (6). Curious about arabinoxylans? Read our article here.
What’s more? Lean proteins, and healthy fats and limited added sugars consuming are as well associated with better blood sugar control.
2. Physical exercise is an essential part of a comprehensive lifestyle changing (5). Studies have shown that both aerobic and resistance training have positive effects, and that combining the two types of exercise has even more positive effects. This way, combining a healthy eating with physical exercise is crucial on stabilising the blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight balance.
Why is it important to keep blood sugar stable?
Summarising, having high blood sugar levels increase the chances of developing obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. On the other hand, having low blood sugar levels can cause problems with cognitive function and other complications. This way, adopting a healthy diet, being physically active, and controlling your weight might helping you on maintaining a stable blood sugar levels and lower the risk of experiencing these adverse health effects.
MEET US - BioActor Presenting MicrobiomeX® and Naxus® at the 15th Annual IPC conference
MEET US – BioActor Presenting MicrobiomeX® and Naxus® at the 15th Annual IPC conference
Press release
The 15th International Scientific Conference on Probiotics, Prebiotics, Gut Microbiota and Health – IPC2022 will be held during 27 – 30 June 2022 in Bratislava. BioActor is an active contributor and confirmed partner of this conference. Hans van der Saag (CEO) will present on our ingredient Naxus®, a prebiotic with metabolic and immune effects, and Yala Stevens (CSO) presents the clinical and mechanistic research on MicrobiomeX® in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients and elderly subjects.
BioActor Presenting MicrobiomeX® and Naxus® at the 15th Annual IPC conference
The 15th International Scientific Conference on Probiotics, Prebiotics, Gut Microbiota and Health – IPC2022 will be held during 27 – 30 June 2022 in Bratislava.
The IPC conference is the world’s biggest scientific conference that focuses solely on basic and applied research of probiotics, prebiotics, gut microbiota and health. More than 400 scientists from over more than 80 countries have attended the conference last season.
The scientific program will focus on current advances in the research, production and use of probiotics and prebiotics with particular focus on their role in maintaining health and preventing diseases. At IPC, leading scientists from industry and academia present current advances in understanding and influencing the interaction between gut microbiota and human health.
The conference enables the interactive exchange of state-of-the-art knowledge. It is focused on evidence-based benefits, health claims proven in scientific experiments and clinical trials.
BioActor is an active contributor and confirmed partner of this conference. Hans van der Saag (CEO) will present on our ingredient Naxus®, a prebiotic with metabolic and immune effects, and Yala Stevens (CSO) presents the clinical and mechanistic research on MicrobiomeX® in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients and elderly subjects.
Naxus® presentation by Hans van der Saag (CEO)
Naxus® is a native arabinoxylan extract from the wheat endosperm. It is a powerful and well-tolerated prebiotic with metabolic and immune effects. Due to its complex branched structure, Naxus® is slowly and selectively fermented by multiple species of the microbiota, inducing a remarkable bifidogenic effect without causing gas formation and intestinal discomfort. It induces a remarkable microbiota shift and increased short-chain fatty acids production, with proven effects on immune health and glycemic control.
MicrobiomeX® presentation by Yala Stevens (CSO)
MicrobiomeX® is a natural extract from citrus fruit designed to beneficially modulate the microbiome composition in the gut. It’s a first-in-class Flavobiotic® that protects the gut barrier and directly leverages the gut microbiome’s potential. This results in enhanced immune health, as well as anti-inflammatory effects.
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with various symptoms including pain and discomfort in the abdomen. Also, elderly often develop imbalances in their gut microbiota and often experience discomfort.
Patients with IBS and elderly would benefit substantially from treatments that could relieve their symptoms and improve their gut health. The flavonoids in MicrobiomeX® have the potential to benefit individuals with gastrointestinal conditions because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Business opportunities
The IPC conference is a great opportunity to reconnect with colleagues from all over the world and make new contacts. Hans van der Saag (CEO) and Yala Stevens (CSO) will be there to represent BioActor’s portfolio, with a focus on our gut health ingredients. Feel free to pass by at any time to chat about our innovative ingredients for gut health support!
We look forward to meeting you in Bratislava!
The IPC 2022 conference will take place from 27 to 30 June 2022.
Where: Hviezdoslavovo námestie 3, 811 02 Bratislava, Slovakia
About BioActor
BioActor, based in Maastricht, Netherlands, is a product development company that supplies proprietary bioactive formulations to the nutrition & healthcare industry. The company focuses on the development of innovative bioactives that address active living and healthy ageing. The goal is to provide the nutrition & healthcare industry with science-based innovations that confer a real health benefit to the consumer.
For further information, see www.bioactor.com or visit https://microbiomex.com/ or https://naxus.nl/
What are prebiotics? Types and health benefits
What are prebiotics? Types and health benefits
Prebiotics are a big topic in nutrition these days. As with probiotics, their relationship with human health has gathered a lot of interest in recent years. Prebiotics are compounds derived from non-digestible carbohydrates that confer health benefits to the host by selectively stimulating the growth of intestinal bacteria.
What are prebiotics?
Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that confer health benefits to the host by selectively stimulating the growth and/or activity of a limited number of our intestinal bacteria [1].
Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), and trans-galacto-oligosaccharides (TOS) are the most common prebiotics.
Fermentation of prebiotics by gut microbiota produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as lactate, butyrate, and propionate. These SCFAs have multiple beneficial effects on the body and gut health, as SCFAs are small enough to enter blood circulation through gut cells.
The difference between probiotics and prebiotics is that, while probiotics are beneficial bacteria, prebiotics are the food for these bacteria. Both are important for human health, but they have different roles. Probiotics are live bacteria and prebiotics are compounds derived from non-digestible carbohydrates –mostly fibre.
Did you know you can combine prebiotics and probiotics to create synbiotic dietary supplements? Read more about that here!
What are the different types of prebiotics?
There are various types of prebiotics. These include:
• Fructans. In this category, we can find inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS). Several bacterial species can be promoted directly or indirectly by fructans.
• Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS). GOS can greatly stimulate Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, as well as Enterobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes to a lesser extent [2].
• Hemicellulose-derived oligosaccharides. These are derived from hemicellulosic macromolecules such as arabinoxylans. Arabinoxylans have demonstrated to produce a strong prebiotic activity, in particular bifidogenic.
• Starch and glucose-derived oligosaccharides. Resistant starch, a type of starch resistant to the upper gut digestion, can stimulate the production of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) [3]. Polydextrose, a glucose-derived oligosaccharide, can also stimulate Bifidobacteria [4].
• Pectic oligosaccharides (POS). Some oligosaccharides come from a polysaccharide called pectin. This type of oligosaccharide is called pectic oligosaccharide (POS).
• Non-carbohydrate oligosaccharides. Although carbohydrates are more likely to meet the criteria to be considered prebiotics, there are other compounds not classified as carbohydrates, but that can be classified as prebiotics, such as some flavanols [5].
What are the health benefits of prebiotics?
Research shows that prebiotics have several health benefits. These include the following:
• Modulation of the microbiota. Prebiotics provide energy sources to gut microbiota. This way, they are able to modulate the function and composition of these microorganisms [6].
• Modulation of the immune system. SCFAs have multiple benefits in the immune system, such as increasing antibody responses toward viral vaccines, like influenza and measles [7].
• Prevention of colorectal cancer. Fermentation products of probiotics, such as butyrate, have protective effects against the risk of colorectal cancer [8, 9].
• Prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis. Prebiotics can prevent the development of this life-threatening disease in preterm infants [10].
• Decrease the risk of allergic skin diseases. Prebiotics decrease both the risk of development and the severity of atopic dermatitis [11, 12].
• Reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Prebiotics are able to lower the risk of CVD by reducing the inflammatory elements, improving lipid profile [7].
• Increase in calcium absorption. Some prebiotics can help increase calcium absorption [13].
How can I add prebiotics to my diet?
Prebiotics play an important role in human health, so it is important to consume them. They can be found in foods that are high in fibre, such as vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole-grain products. Foods that are high in prebiotic fibre include:
• Wheat
• Soybeans
• Oats
• Bananas
• Tomatoes
• Berries
• Asparagus
• Garlic
• Leeks
• Onions
• Chicory
Another option to increase prebiotic intake are supplements. They can be purchased in health food stores and online. They can be found in capsule form, in powder blends or even in bars.
Prebiotics are generally considered safe. They can have some minor side effects, such as diarrhea, bloating and flatulence. However, prebiotics’ chain length is the main parameter related to the development of these side effects.
Prebiotics with a shorter chain length have more side effects because they are fermented earlier and more rapidly, while longer chain prebiotics –such as arabinoxylans from wheat– are fermented later and slower.
Not all Arabinoxylans are the same: let's find out the difference
Not all Arabinoxylans are the same: let’s find out the difference
Arabinoxylans are soluble fibres extracted from cereal grains, such as the wheat endosperm. However, not all arabinoxylans share the same structure, which affects not only the physicochemical properties, but also their health benefits. They vary in the degree of polymerization, solubility, degree of substitution or presence of antioxidants, such as ferulic acid.
What are arabinoxylans?
Arabinoxylans are soluble fibres extractable from cereal grains. Arabinoxylans have been identified in all major cereal grains, including wheat, barley, oats, rye, rice, sorghum, maize, and millet. In cereal grains, arabinoxylans are localized mainly in the cell walls of starchy endosperm and the aleurone layer, in the bran tissues, and in the husk of some cereals.
Arabinoxylans can be used as a dietary supplement due to their beneficial effects on gut health, glycaemic control and immune health.
Moreover, due to the physicochemical and technological properties of these molecules (e.g. water-binding capacity, gelation), arabinoxylans can also be used as a baking additive to improve dough consistency, increase loaf volumes and improve crumb structure.
The general structure of arabinoxylans
Arabinoxylans are very long molecules consisting of a copolymer of two pentose sugars: arabinose and xylose. The general structure of arabinoxylans is formed by a backbone of xylose with arabinose residues attached to xylose units in different positions.
The relative amount and the sequence of distribution of these structural elements vary depending on the source of arabinoxylans. The majority of arabinose residues in arabinoxylans are present as monomeric substituents; however, a small proportion of oligomeric side chains consisting of two or more arabinose residues have been reported.
Therefore, although arabinoxylans share a common general structure, one important distinction between them is chain length. Chain length is an important feature, as it influences the industrial applications and health benefits of arabinoxylans. For instance, while arabinoxylans from wheat endosperm have an average chain length higher than 60, arabinoxylan-oligosaccharides (AXOS) extracted from wheat have an average chain length of 2–10.
On the other hand, the molecular structure of arabinoxylans from rice, sorghum, finger millet, and maize bran is slightly different than the one from wheat, rye, and barley, since the side branches contain, in addition to arabinose residues, small amounts of other compounds, which can confer additional health benefits or physicochemical properties.
Not all arabinoxylans share the same structure
Arabinoxylans from various cereals and different plant tissues share the same general molecular structure. However, depending on the genus and species, the amount and structure of arabinoxylans in a particular tissue may differ drastically, which affects not only their physicochemical properties, but also their health benefits.
Arabinoxylans as part of dietary fibre have many potential physiological effects along the gastrointestinal tract. These effects are dependent on a complex mixture of molecular and physical properties of arabinoxylan preparations, as well as on the site, rate, and extent of their digestion and fermentation in the gut.
These differences are reflected, among others, in the degree of polymerization (chain length), solubility, degree of substitution or presence of other substituents, such as feruloyl groups.
• Degree of polymerization
It represents the length of the arabinoxylan chain, and it is related to a greater bifidogenic effect. [1]
For instance, native arabinoxylans from wheat endosperm have an average degree of polymerization higher than 60 and, often, higher than 100; while other fibres such as arabinoxylan-oligosaccharides (AXOS) and inulin typically have a degree of polymerization of 2–10. [2]
• Solubility
The wheat endosperm contains the highest amount of soluble arabinoxylans, which is associated with a greater bifidogenic effect.
Insoluble arabinoxylans are typically found in the bran, stalks or corn stover, and are not likely to be digested in the large intestine.
Moreover, the extraction of water-insoluble arabinoxylans requires the use of cell wall blasting enzymes or strong alkaline chemicals.
Such heavy enzymatic or chemical treatment has a negative impact on both chain length and ferulic acid bonds. [1] Often, these extracted molecules are no longer arabinoxylans, but have become AXOS.
• Degree of substitution
It represents the ratio of arabinose to xylose residues. The presence of arabinose substitution also affects the fermentation ability of microorganisms.
While arabinoxylans support the growth of some bacterial species, unsubstituted xylans are not fermented by any of the probiotic bacteria.
Unsubstituted xylans form insoluble aggregates and hinder the accessibility of the bacteria. [1]
• Presence of substituents
The beneficial role of arabinoxylans in the human diet may also be associated with the presence of other substituents, such as ferulic acid covalently bound to these polymers.
Ferulic acid is considered a natural antioxidant, food antimicrobial agent, anti-inflammatory agent, photoprotectant and food flavour precursor. [3]
In conclusion, although arabinoxylans from various cereals share the same general structure, the specific structure varies greatly. These differences in structure are characterized by different factors (degree of polymerization, solubility…), which determine the potential health benefits and physicochemical properties of arabinoxylans, thus affecting the industrial applications of these molecules.
Technological properties of arabinoxylans as baking additives
Technological properties of arabinoxylans as baking additives
Arabinoxylans are soluble fibres extracted from cereal grains, such as the wheat endosperm. Due to the physicochemical and technological properties of these molecules, arabinoxylans can be used as a baking additive to improve dough consistency, increase loaf volumes, improve crumb structure and decrease bread staling. Arabinoxylans are palatable and arabinoxylan-rich foods are well accepted by consumers.
What are arabinoxylans?
Arabinoxylans are soluble fibres extractable from cereal grains. Arabinoxylans have been identified in all major cereal grains, including wheat, barley, oats, rye, rice, sorghum, maize, and millet.
In cereal grains, arabinoxylans are localized mainly in the cell walls of starchy endosperm and the aleurone layer, in the bran tissues, and in the husk of some cereals.
Arabinoxylans can be used as a dietary supplement due to their beneficial effects on gut health, glycaemic control and immune health.
Depending on the genus and species, the amount and structure of arabinoxylans in a particular tissue may vary. For instance, in wheat, there is more arabinoxylan in the walls surrounding the cells of starchy endosperm than in those of aleurone.
Not all arabinoxylans are the same. They vary on the degree of polymerization, which represents the length of the arabinoxylan chains, and on the soluble arabinoxylan content, among others.
Arabinoxylans as technologically functional food ingredients
The role of arabinoxylans in the bread-making processes and their effects on the final bread product have been widely studied. Soluble arabinoxylans, such as those found in the wheat endosperm, have positive effects on dough consistency, loaf volumes, crumb structure and bread staling.
All these characteristics contribute to their utility not only in the bread-making process, but also as neutraceuticals incorporated into functional foods. Arabinoxylans are palatable and arabinoxylan-rich foods are well accepted by consumers. Arabinoxylans have been successfully added to bread, porridge or biscuits, among others.
• Dough consistency
A clear distinction needs to be made between soluble and insoluble arabinoxylans. When added to wheat flour, soluble arabinoxylans, compete for water with other flour constituents. As a consequence, dough consistency is increased.
In opposition, insoluble arabinoxylans can form physical barriers for the gluten network during dough development. The resulting gluten has lower extensibility, which decreases dough consistency.
• Loaf volumes
Soluble arabinoxylans increase the viscosity of the dough’s aqueous phase and, thus, have a positive effect both on dough structure and stability, especially during the early baking processes.
This increased stability surrounding the gas cells is very useful in prolonging oven rise, which leads to an increased loaf volume.
Insoluble arabinoxylans, on the other hand, destabilize dough structure and have a negative effect on loaf volume. They also absorb a large amount of water, leaving less available water for proper gluten development and film formation, resulting in a lower loaf volume.
• Crumb structure
As mentioned, soluble arabinoxylans increase the viscosity of the dough’s aqueous phase, leading to greater dough stability. This increased stability surrounding the gas cells also leads to an improved crumb structure.
• Bread staling
Another functional property of arabinoxylans is associated with their role in bread staling. Bread staling is a complex phenomenon involving loss of aroma, deterioration of crust characteristics and increase in crumb firmness. Stale bread is dry and hard.
Over a 7-day storage period, arabinoxylan-fortified bread exhibits lower crumb hardness than the controls without added arabinoxylans. This is attributed to the higher moisture content in the bread fortified with arabinoxylans, as well as to the plasticizing effects of water. [1]
The bottom line
Due to the physicochemical and technological properties (e.g. water-binding capacity, gelation) of soluble arabinoxylans, such as those found in the wheat endosperm, these molecules can be used as a baking additive to improve dough consistency, increase loaf volumes, improve crumb structure and decrease bread staling. Arabinoxylans are palatable and arabinoxylan-rich foods are well accepted by consumers.
What are the health benefits of wheat arabinoxylans?
What are the health benefits of wheat arabinoxylans?
Wheat arabinoxylans are a type of non-starch polysaccharide found in the cell walls of wheat grains. The interest in these molecules has been increasing over time due to their proven health benefits. The consumption of wheat arabinoxylans results in a strong prebiotic effect, enhancement in overall gut health and immunity, and improvement in metabolic parameters such as blood glucose and insulin levels.
What are arabinoxylans?
Arabinoxylans are a type of non-starch polysaccharide found in the cell walls of cereal grains. Arabinoxylans have been identified in all major cereal grains, including wheat, barley, oats, rye, rice, sorghum, maize, and millet. They are localized mainly in the cell walls of starchy endosperm and the aleurone layer, in the bran, and in the husk.
Not all arabinoxylans are the same. Depending on the cereal, the amount and structure of arabinoxylans in a particular tissue may vary. Wheat arabinoxylans are formed by side chains linked by α-(1→2) and/or α-(1→3) bonds along the xylan backbone, and xyloses are most commonly mono-substituted.
The molecular structure of arabinoxylans is also dependent on the extraction method applied. Arabinoxylans can be extracted using chemical, enzymatic, or physical treatments. The different extraction techniques results in differences in the degree of polymerization (which represents the length of the arabinoxylan chains), and the content of soluble arabinoxylan.
As with all dietary fibres, their physicochemical characteristics affect the degree to which they are utilised by the gut microbiota. Higher degrees of polymerization and concentrations of soluble fibre are related to greater bifidogenic effects. [1]
Wheat arabinoxylans can be used as a dietary supplement due to their beneficial effects on gut health, glycaemic control and immune health.
Moreover, due to the physicochemical and technological properties of these molecules (e.g. water-binding capacity, gelation), wheat arabinoxylans can also be used as a baking additive to improve dough consistency, increase loaf volumes and improve crumb structure.
The health benefits of wheat arabinoxylans
Research around wheat arabinoxylans has suggested that these compounds, as part of dietary fibre, have many beneficial physiological effects along the entire human gastrointestinal tract.
These effects are dependent on a complex mixture of molecular and physical properties of arabinoxylan preparations, as well as on the site, rate and extent of their digestion and fermentation in the gut.
Wheat arabinoxylans have strong prebiotic properties
Arabinoxylans have strong prebiotic properties, by selectively stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon, such as Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides species. [2,3]
This change in the microbiota is associated with positive health outcomes, such as improved overall health, decreased gut infections and enhanced mineral absorption.
Additionally, the fermentation of prebiotics by intestinal bacteria results in the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have numerous favourable effects.
These effects include the inhibition of harmful bacteria, colon cancer prevention or improvement of glucose tolerance, among others. [4]
Wheat arabinoxylans improve glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity
Evidence suggests that arabinoxylans from wheat improve metabolic control in people with impaired glucose tolerance and with Diabetes type 2, by improving blood glucose and insulin levels.
The short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) formed from the metabolization of arabinoxylans by the gut microbiota are mainly butyrate, acetate and propionate. Acetate and propionate can bind to a specific protein receptor called GPCR43 in the colon.
After binding, the secretion of two peptides (PYY and GLP-1) is increased. This leads to lowered intestinal motility and a decrease in the levels of a hunger hormone called ghrelin. These processes are key to improving glucose handling. [5,6]
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that there is sufficient scientific evidence to substantiate the health claim that the consumption of arabinoxylans produced from wheat endosperm contributes to a reduction of the glucose rise after a meal. [7]
Some other soluble fibres have also been associated with this health benefit; however, one of the advantages of arabinoxylans lies in their higher palatability.
Wheat arabinoxylans boost immune health
Arabinoxylans have immunomodulatory properties. Specifically, they may enhance adaptive immunity, innate immunity and gut barrier integrity:
1. Adaptive immunity. Arabinoxylans may enhance vaccination efficacy against influenza, resulting in fewer adverse events, fewer respiratory tract infections and an improved seroprotection rate. [8]
2. Innate immunity. As mentioned, arabinoxylans may promote a beneficial short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) profile. This leads to increased cytokine production, improved monocytes recruitment capacity, and activation of regulatory T-cells, resulting in increased immune system vigilance. All these cells are involved in keeping the immune system in check by making sure that it returns to a stable state after invaders have been successfully cleaned up. [9,10]
3. Gut barrier integrity. The short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate provides additional energy to the gut cells and strengthens the mucus layer. Arabinoxylans further induce the upregulation of tight junction proteins, protecting the human body against foreign invaders and strengthening the immune system. [11,12]
How can you add wheat arabinoxylans to your diet?
Though in small concentrations, wheat arabinoxylans are naturally found in wheat-based products. However, if you want to increase the intake of these compounds in your diet, dietary supplements or enriched functional foods are also available. They can be found in capsule form, in powder blends, bars and even products such as enriched bread, pasta, and a variety of other snacks.
Generally, 1 to 5 grams of arabinoxylans daily are enough to benefit from their prebiotic effect. Regarding EFSA’s health claim on glycaemic control, at least 8% of arabinoxylan-rich fibre produced from wheat endosperm per unit of available carbohydrates should be consumed.
Wheat arabinoxylans are generally considered safe and well tolerated by the gut, meaning that they do not cause intestinal discomfort. [13,14]
