The Impact of Short-Chain Fatty Acids on Gut Hormone Release After Delivery in the Small and Large Intestine of Healthy Volunteers

Launched by KU LEUVEN · Nov 12, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring how short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are natural substances found in certain foods, affect the release of hormones in the gut that help control feelings of hunger and fullness. The study involves healthy volunteers who will take SCFA capsules either in their small intestine or their colon to see if the location where these acids are delivered makes a difference in hormone release. Participants will have their blood tested at different times after taking the capsules to measure the effects.

To be eligible for this study, participants should be healthy adults aged 18 to 50 with a normal body weight. They should not have any chronic digestive issues or have recently undergone surgeries (except for appendectomy). Additionally, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the study cannot participate. If you join the study, you'll be helping researchers understand how SCFAs influence gut hormone release, which could have important implications for managing appetite and metabolism in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • male and female
• • healthy
• • normal BMI (18.5-25 kg/m\^2)
• • age within 18-50 years
• 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)