Effect of a mixture of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) / fructooligosaccharides (FOS) on the intestinal absorption and bone retention of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium: experimental model in rats during normal growth.

Abstract

Calcium requirements are generally not covered regardless of age and socioeconomic status. Increase Ca intake would be adequate to prevent deficiency; however, if it is not possible, to increase intestinal absorption would be an useful tool to obtain an extra-supply of mineral. Colonic flora fermentation of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) enhances active and passive Ca absorption. Objective: to evaluate GOS/FOS® effect on Ca, Mg and P absorption and retention in an experimental growing rat model. Methods: At weaning, Wistar male rats (n = 8) received AIN93-G (A), Vital, Nutrilon or Nutrilon Lactose Free (N, V and NSL respectively) formula milks until 40 days of life. NSL and N supplies 5.3% of GOS / FOS ® while A and V does not. Food consumption, Ca, Mg and P absorption, and lactobacilli development in fresh feces was evaluated weekly; caecum pH, femur mineral content and biomechanical, total skeleton mineral and subareas of bone mineral content and density (BMC, BMD) (Lunar DXA) were measured after sacrifice. Results: No significant differences in caloric terms of food consumption were found among groups. N and NSL increased lactobacilli development (p<0.0001); reduced caecum pH (p<0.0001); increased Ca, Mg and P absorptions (p <0.05, p <0.01, p<0.0005, respectively); femur mineral content (p<0.05); total skeleton BMC and tibia BMD (p<0.01) and biomechanical parameters (p<0.05) vs. A and V.
Conclusion: The mixture GOS / FOS ® supplied an extra amount of bone minerals that beneficed bone acquisition.