The Systemic Concentration of Short-Chain Fatty Acids After Delivery in the Small and Large Intestine of Healthy Volunteers

Launched by KU LEUVEN · Oct 9, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how well short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are absorbed into the bloodstream when they are given in two different parts of the intestines: the small intestine and the colon. Short-chain fatty acids are important nutrients that can affect our health, and the researchers want to find out if the location where these acids are administered makes a difference in how much gets into the blood. Healthy volunteers aged 18 to 50 who meet certain health criteria will participate in this study by taking capsules containing SCFAs on two different days, with blood samples taken afterward to see how much of the SCFAs are absorbed.

To be eligible, participants must be healthy adults with a normal weight, meaning their body mass index (BMI) falls between 18.5 and 25. People with certain gastrointestinal issues, those who have had major abdominal surgeries, or those on specific diets like vegan or gluten-free will not be able to participate. During the study, participants will take the capsules on two separate days, and they'll need to avoid certain medications or supplements before and during the trial. Overall, this study aims to improve our understanding of how our bodies process important nutrients like SCFAs, which could have implications for digestive health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • female and male
• • healthy participants
• • age within 18 - 50 years
• • normal BMI (18.5-25 kg/m\^2)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), celiac disease, chronic constipation (less than 3 stools a week) and chronic frequent diarrhoea (more than 3 stools a day)
• • Previous abdominal surgery, except from appendectomy
• • Being on a weight loss, gluten-free, lactose-free, or vegan diet
• • The donation of blood during the last 3 months or suffering from low blood haemoglobin levels
• • The use of antibiotics or other medication that affects the gastrointestinal tract 3 months preceding the study and/or during the study
• • The use of prebiotics or probiotics 2 weeks preceding the study and/or during the study
• • Pregnancy, lactation or wish to become pregnant during the study period
• • Previous or current substance/alcohol dependence or abuse (\> 2 units per day/14 units per week)