Determination of the Bioavailability of Short Chain Fatty Acids in Healthy Humans

Evaluation of the Bioavailability and Production of Short Chain Fatty Acids in the Colon. A Stable Isotope Study in Healthy Humans.

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the bioavailability of acetate, propionate and butyrate in healthy humans using a stable isotope technology.

In addition the level of acetate, propionate and butyrate production from inulin will be determined using the principle of isotope dilution.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy volunteers
• Regular dietary pattern (3 meals/day)
• Age: 18-65y
• BMI: 18,5-27 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

• Intake of antibiotics 1 month prior to the study
• Abdominal surgery in the past, with the exception of appendectomy
• Intake of medication influencing the gastro-intestinal system 14 days prior to the study
• In treatment at a dietician
• Intake of pre- and/or probiotics
• Exposure to radioactivity 1 year prior to the study
• Serious chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract
• Use of medication that affects the gastro-intestinal tract during the last 2 weeks prior to the study
• Pregnancy, pregnancy desire or lactation
• Blood donation during the last 3 months prior to the study
• Diabetes (type 1 or 2)
• Aberrant hemoglobin level (Hb) in blood. Normal between 14.0 and 18.0 g/dL for men and between 12.0 and 16.0 g/dL for women