Impact of Native Chicory Inulin on Change and Persistence of Gut Microbiota

Launched by PURDUE UNIVERSITY · Jul 29, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a natural fiber called native chicory inulin on the gut microbiota, which is the community of bacteria living in our intestines, in healthy adults. The researchers want to find out how quickly and for how long these bacteria change in response to chicory inulin compared to a placebo (a substance that has no active effect). They will also look at how chicory inulin affects bowel habits, mood, and appetite. Participants will take either chicory inulin or a maltodextrin placebo for 6 weeks and will record any changes they notice in their digestion and feelings.

To participate in this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 to 45, have a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 30, and have regular bowel movements (at least 4 times a week). Certain health conditions, like gastrointestinal diseases or mood disorders, and specific diets, like low FODMAP or restrictive diets, may exclude you from participating. Throughout the study, participants will provide fecal and blood samples and keep a diary to track their experiences, helping researchers understand how chicory inulin affects gut health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • adults aged 18-45
• • BMI \>18.5 - \< 30 kg/m2
• • Regular bowel movements (\> 4 days per week)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Self-reported sensitivity to FODMAPs and following a low FODMAP diet ((FODMAPS stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols).
• • Self-reported food allergies and sensitivities including gluten, dairy, nuts, soya and lactose etc.
• • Self-reported antibiotic treatment in the past 6 months.
• • Self-reported history of gastrointestinal disease and/or heart disease, cardiovascular, liver, and respiratory disorders, cancer and/or clinically relevant (pre) diabetes.
• • Self-reported to having undergone major surgery of the gastrointestinal tract, with the exception of cholecystectomy and appendectomy.
• • Self-reported smoking and/or self-reported drug or alcohol abuse.
• • Self-reported history of psychiatric and/or mood disorders including eating disorders.
• • Self-reported to be following a restrictive diet (i.e. ketogenic, intermittent fasting).
• • Pregnant and lactating women.