Prebiotics Enhance Calcium Absorption

HOUSTON--Prebiotics may enhance calcium absorption and bone mineral accretion, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, (82, 2:471-76, 2005).

Researchers administered 8 g/d mixed short- and long-chain inulin-typed fructans (fructan group) or placebo to pubertal adolescents for one year. Bone mineral content was measured at baseline and at the end of the trial, and calcium absorption was assessed at baseline, eight weeks and one year after supplementation. Compared to the control group, calcium absorption was significantly greater in the fructan group at eight weeks and at one year, and whole-body bone mineral content and bone mineral density was greater in the fructan group at one year.

The researchers concluded daily intake of a combination of prebiotic short- and long-chain inulin-type fructans significantly increases calcium absorption and enhances bone mineralization during pubertal growth.