The human digestive system lack the enzymes that break the ß(1–2) glycosidic linkage bonds in prebiotic fibers and they reach the colon intact where they are fermented and consumed by the resident gut bacteria. Microbial fermentation and hydrolysis reactions of these fibers transform prebiotics to short chain fatty acids, thereby lowering the colonic pH, leading to an acidic environment. This prevents calcium from forming complexes with negatively charged metabolites as phytates and oxalates. The release of calcium from these molecules increases the mineral’s availability for absorption and subsequent bone mineralization. The document details the processes and also reviews some clinical evidences available with respect to prebiotics and mineral absorption.

For more information, write to : nutra@tatachemicals.com