Impact of Dietary Fiber as Prebiotics on Intestinal Microbiota in Obese Thai Children
Impact of Dietary Fiber as Prebiotics on Intestinal Microbiota in Obese Thai Children
This study evaluates the changes in gut microbiota composition, body fat, children's eating behaviors, plasma amino acids, and satiety hormones (Peptide-YY and GLP-1) after a 6-month period in obese Thai children.
A total of 165 children, aged 7 to 15 years with a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ median + 2 standard deviation (SD), were randomized into three groups:
Group A (intervention group) received inulin daily.
Group B received an isocaloric maltodextrin placebo.
Group C received dietary fiber advice aimed to match age-appropriate recommendations.
The prevalence of childhood obesity is increasing worldwide and is associated with gut microbiota dysbiosis, which affects energy regulation and systemic inflammation. Childhood obesity management typically involves lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes.
Prebiotics, such as inulin-type fructans, are non-digestible polysaccharides that can modulate the gut microbiota composition, specifically by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium. This microbial shift may lead to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which play a role in host physiology and metabolic health.
This study aims to investigate the impact of inulin supplementation on the gut microbiota composition and various health parameters in obese Thai children. Participants were randomized into three groups:
Intervention group receiving inulin extracted from Thai Jerusalem artichoke.
Placebo group receiving isocaloric maltodextrin.
Control group receiving dietary fiber intake advice.
The study focuses on evaluating changes in gut microbial taxa using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and assessing secondary parameters including body composition and satiety hormones over a 6-month period.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: