Product based yacon and modulation of microbiota, fatty acid profile and lipid in ovariectomized female rats

ABSTRACT Objective: Fructans, a type of inulin present in yacon based products, can modulate microbiota and fatty acid profile, performing many beneficial roles. From this perspective, this study assessed the modulation of the gastrointestinal microbiota, organic acid profile, and lipid profile of ovariectomized Wistar rats fed or not a diet containing 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin from a yacon based product. Methods: Cecum weight, pH, and organic acids, cecal content microbiota, total cholesterol, and fractions were analyzed. Results: The group fed the diet supplemented with fructooligosaccharides and inulin during the study period experienced beneficial modulation of their intestinal microbiota stemming from fructooligosaccharide/inulin fermentation and increased lactate profile (p<0.05) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p<0.05). Conclusion: This suggests that regular yacon intake can potentially modulate the intestinal microbiota and organic acid profile, and reduce dyslipidemia.