A randomized trial to evaluate the impact of copra meal hydrolysate on gastrointestinal symptoms and gut microbiome

• Published in: PeerJ (San Francisco, CA) Vol. 9; p. e12158
• Main Authors: Sathitkowitchai, Witida, Suratannon, Narissara, Keawsompong, Suttipun, Weerapakorn, Wanlapa, Patumcharoenpol, Preecha, Nitisinprasert, Sunee, Nakphaichit, Massalin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: San Diego, USA PeerJ. Ltd 15.09.2021; PeerJ Inc
• Subjects: Clinical Trials; Copra meal hydrolysate; Drugs and Devices; Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Human gut microbiome; Immunoglobulin A; Mannooligosaccharides; Microbiology; Prebiotic; Short-chain fatty acid; Thailand
• ISSN: 2167-8359; 2167-8359
• DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12158

The impact of copra meal hydrolysate (CMH) on gut health was assessed by conducting a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. Sixty healthy adult participants, aged 18–40 years were assigned to daily consume 3 g of CMH, 5 g of CMH or placebo in the form of drink powder for 21 days. Consumption of CMH at 3 g/d improved defecating conditions by reducing stool size and also relieved flatulence and bloating symptoms. Fecal samples were collected serially at the baseline before treatment, after the treatment and after a 2-week washout period. The gut microbiomes were similar among the treatment groups, with microbial community changes observed within the groups. Intake of CMH at 3 g/d led to increase microbial diversity and richness. Reduction of the ratio between Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes was observed, although it was not significantly different between the groups. The 3 g/d CMH treatment increased beneficial microbes in the group of fiber-degrading bacteria, especially human colonic Bacteroidetes , while induction of Bifidobacteriaceae was observed after the washout period. Intake of CMH led to increase lactic acid production, while 3 g/d supplement promoted the present of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in stool samples. The 3 g daily dose of CMH led to the potentially beneficial effects on gut health for healthy individuals.