Galakto-oligosaharīdi (GOS) - raksturojums veselības speciālistiem

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) - characterization for health professionals

PreImmu: Innovative VOC Product for Your Health

PreImmu is an innovative product whose main and only active ingredient is galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS). VOCs are non-digestible carbohydrates consisting of galactose and glucose monomers. These carbohydrates are produced from lactose by β-galactosidase enzymes. VOCs act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improving various physiological processes in the body, including the immune system, mineral absorption and skin health.

What are Prebiotics?

Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary components that benefit the host by selectively stimulating the growth and/or activity of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby improving host health. They are essential for balancing the intestinal microflora and optimal intestinal function. Prebiotics include fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), inulin and other fermentable carbohydrates.

History of Prebiotics

The concept of prebiotics began in 1954, when researcher Gyorgy discovered that N-acetylglucosamine, a component of human milk, promotes the growth of Bifidobacterium strains. In 1957, Petuely recognized lactulose as a bifidus factor. A few years later, in the 1970s and 1980s, Japanese researchers discovered that several indigestible oligosaccharides are bifidus factors. The term "prebiotic" was first defined in 1995 [G.R. Gibson un M.B. Roberfroid 1995].

Advantages of VOCs Compared to Other Prebiotics:

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are unique compared to other prebiotics such as inulin for several reasons:

  1. Higher Selectivity:
    • Growth of Beneficial Bacteria: VOCs more selectively stimulate beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, compared to other prebiotics. This means that VOCs contribute more effectively to the balance and health of the intestinal microflora.
  2. Better Fermentation:
    • Fewer Side Effects: VOC fermentation in the gut occurs more easily and quickly compared to other prebiotics such as inulin, which can reduce bloating and discomfort. This makes VOCs a more affordable choice for people with more sensitive digestive systems.
  3. Lightly Sweet Taste:
    • Taste Properties: VOCs have a mildly sweet taste that makes them an attractive ingredient in a variety of foods and beverages. This taste is acceptable to both adults and children, making VOCs easy to integrate into the daily diet.
  4. Degree of Polymerization:
    • Unique Structure: The molecular structure of VOCs consists of an average of 150 compounds with different bonds, which makes them unique and more effective in modulating the intestinal microflora compared to other prebiotics.
  5. Soluble Fiber:
    • Intestinal pH Improvement: VOC acts as a soluble fiber that can improve the pH of the intestinal tract, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing the number of pathogens. This effect helps maintain a healthy gut environment and improves digestive health.
  6. Wider Impact on Health:
    • Strengthening the Immune System: VOCs help modulate the immune system by reducing inflammatory responses and improving immune tolerance, which are essential for the prevention and management of autoimmune diseases.
    • Improve Mineral Absorption: VOCs promote the absorption of minerals such as calcium, which are important for bone health.
    • Reducing Cholesterol Levels: VOCs help lower total and LDL cholesterol levels, improving cardiovascular health.
    • Skin Health: VOCs have a positive effect on skin health by promoting healthy intestinal microflora, which in turn improves skin condition and reduces the risk of dermatological diseases.
    • Mental Health: VOCs promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce metabolites that affect brain function and mood, improving mental health and reducing anxiety and depression.
  7. Fewer Side Effects:
    • Stomach Comfort: Compared to other prebiotics such as inulin, VOCs cause fewer side effects such as bloating and discomfort. This makes VOCs a more suitable choice for long-term use and for people with sensitive digestive systems.
  8. Security and History:
    • Safe Use for Infants: VOCs have been used in infant formula since the 1980s, demonstrating their safety and efficacy in infants. This history has opened the door to many scientific studies that further support the health benefits of VOCs.

VOCs and Gut Health

VOCs act as prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus . These microorganisms help maintain the balance of the intestinal microflora, which is critical for the prevention of various health problems, including maintaining the health of the digestive system and regulating the immune system.

Mechanism of action

Intestinal Fermentation: Intestinal fermentation of VOCs promotes the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as propionate, butyrate, and acetate. These fatty acids play an important role in maintaining intestinal microflora and barrier function.

  • The Role of Butyrate: Butyrate, one of the main DFAs, is the main energy source for intestinal cells (enterocytes). It promotes intestinal barrier integrity by reducing inflammation and protecting against increased intestinal permeability.

Research and References

Immune System Support

VOCs stimulate the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), which strengthen the intestinal barrier and improve immune responses. CFAs such as butyrate, propionate and acetate play a role in energy metabolism and the regulation of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. These metabolites not only support gut cell health, but can also modulate immune cells, strengthening the body's defenses against pathogens.

Mechanism of action

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and Gram-Negative Bacteria: Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are found on the outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria and are powerful immune system stimulators. LPS can cause a strong inflammatory response when they enter the bloodstream, contributing to sepsis and other inflammatory conditions. Therefore, it is important to maintain a healthy gut microflora to prevent excessive LPS from entering the bloodstream.

  • Propionate Role: Propionate reduces LPS production by promoting beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, which suppresses the growth of Gram-negative bacteria. It helps maintain the integrity of the gut barrier and prevent excessive LPS from entering the bloodstream, reducing inflammatory responses and strengthening the immune system response.

Research and References

Mineral Absorption

VOCs improve the absorption of minerals such as calcium, which are important for bone health. Sufficient intake and absorption of calcium and other minerals is necessary not only for bone health, but also for muscle function and overall metabolism. Studies have shown that VOCs can improve calcium absorption and promote bone mineralization, which is especially important for growing children, postmenopausal women, and the elderly.

Mechanism of action

Intestinal Fermentation: Intestinal fermentation of VOCs promotes the production of short-chain fatty acids that improve intestinal absorption of minerals, especially calcium. These fatty acid metabolites promote calcium transport and absorption in intestinal cells, thereby improving calcium availability to the body and promoting bone health.

  • The Role of Butyrate: Butyrate improves calcium absorption by increasing the expression of calcium transport proteins in intestinal epithelial cells, which promotes more efficient mineral absorption.

Research and References

Lowering Cholesterol Level

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) have been shown to lower total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, promoting cardiovascular health. High cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies show that VOCs can help lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, improving lipid profiles and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.

Mechanism of action

Intestinal Fermentation: Intestinal fermentation of VOCs promotes the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as propionate, butyrate, and acetate. These fatty acids play an important role in the regulation of cholesterol metabolism.

  • Role of Propionate:
    • HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibition: Propionate inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of hydroxy-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) to mevalonate, a critical step in cholesterol synthesis. By inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, propionate reduces the rate of cholesterol synthesis in the liver, resulting in lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
    • Promotion of Bile Acid Production: Propionate promotes bile acid production in the liver. Bile acids are derivatives of cholesterol that are necessary for fat digestion and absorption. Increased production of bile acids means that more cholesterol is used for the synthesis of these acids, reducing total cholesterol levels in the body.
    • Reduction of Cholesterol Reabsorption: Propionate reduces cholesterol reabsorption from the intestinal tract. Cholesterol that is not absorbed is excreted from the body in the feces, which helps to remove cholesterol from the body, further reducing its level in the blood.
    • Improvement of Lipid Profiles: The action of propionate on HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol reabsorption generally improves blood lipid profiles, lowering LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol, and potentially increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.

Research and References

Collagen Synthesis and Wound Healing

VOCs improve gut health, which in turn promotes the absorption of nutrients needed for collagen synthesis and wound healing. Collagen is an essential protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin, bones and connective tissues. Adequate collagen synthesis is important for wound healing and skin health. VOCs help ensure optimal absorption of nutrients needed for collagen production, improving tissue regeneration and skin elasticity.

Mechanism of action

Gut-Barrier Function: GOS improves gut-barrier function and promotes the absorption of nutrients such as amino acids and vitamins, which are necessary for collagen synthesis. Improved nutrient availability promotes collagen production in the body, which improves skin and tissue regeneration.

Research and References

Mental Health

VOCs can have a positive effect on mental health by modulating the gut microbiota, reducing anxiety and improving the stress response. The gut microbiota-brain connection, also known as the gut-brain axis, plays an important role in maintaining mental health. Research shows that the balance of gut microbiota can influence neurotransmitter production and mood regulation. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, VOCs can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and reduce the effects of stress.

Mechanism of action

Neurotransmitter Production: VOCs promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut that produce short-chain fatty acids and other bioactive molecules that can affect brain function and mood. These metabolites can modulate neurotransmitter production and enhance stress and anxiety responses.

Research and References

Skin Health

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) can have a significant impact on skin health, mainly due to their ability to improve gut microflora and gut-barrier function. The health of the skin is closely related to the health of the gut, as the gut microbiota and the gut-barrier play an important role in maintaining the overall health of the body and regulating the immune system. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and improving the absorption of nutrients, VOCs can have a positive effect on the condition of the skin, promoting its elasticity, hydration and overall appearance.

Mechanism of action

Gut-Skin Axis: The Gut-Skin Axis is a concept that points to the close relationship between gut health and skin condition. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microflora, can cause inflammatory reactions that can also affect the skin, leading to various dermatological conditions such as liver, eczema and psoriasis. By improving gut microflora with VOCs, it is possible to reduce these symptoms and improve skin health.

  • Intestinal Fermentation: Intestinal fermentation of VOCs promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria that help maintain gut-barrier function and prevent inflammatory processes that can affect the skin. An improved gut-barrier helps prevent pathogens and toxins from entering the bloodstream, reducing skin inflammatory reactions.

Research and References

Effects on Obesity and Diabetes

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) have proven their effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of obesity and diabetes by modulating the gut microbiota and improving metabolic functions. Obesity and type 2 diabetes are global health problems with high prevalence and significant complications such as cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance. Prebiotics, such as VOCs, may play an important role in the management of these diseases.

Mechanism of action

Intestinal Microflora Modification: VOCs act as prebiotics that promote beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, growth. These bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, propionate, and acetate, which play an important role in metabolic regulation.

  • Production of Short Chain Fatty Acids: When fermented in the gut, VOCs contribute to the production of CFA. These fatty acids help lower blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and promote the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate appetite and glucose metabolism.

Effect on Obesity

  • Energy Homeostasis: VOCs improve energy homeostasis by stimulating the secretion of satiety hormones and reducing appetite. Studies have shown that VOCs can help reduce body weight by promoting satiety and reducing calorie intake.
  • Fat Mass and Metabolism: GOCs reduce fat mass gain and improve lipid profile by reducing blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. It helps reduce the risk of obesity-related complications.

Effect on Diabetes

  • Glucose Metabolism: GOS improves glucose metabolism by lowering blood glucose levels and improving insulin sensitivity. This is especially important for patients with type 2 diabetes, as improved glucose metabolism helps control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes complications.
  • Inflammation Reduction: VOCs reduce inflammatory markers in the body, which is important in diabetes management because chronic inflammation is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes progression.

Research and References

Prevention of allergies with VOCs

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) have shown potential to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and promote immune system tolerance. Allergies, including atopic dermatitis (AD), respiratory allergies, and food allergies, are a major public health problem affecting more than 30% of people, especially children. VOCs affect the gut microbiota, the epithelial barrier and the immune system, which are essential in these processes.

Mechanism of action

  • Microbiota Modification: VOCs act as prebiotics, promoting beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, growth. These bacteria play an important role in regulating the immune system and reducing allergic reactions.
  • Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCA) Production: When fermented in the gut, VOCs promote the production of SCAs such as butyrate, propionate and acetate. These fatty acids modulate immune responses and may promote immunotolerance by reducing the severity of inflammatory responses and allergic symptoms.
  • Epithelial Barrier Strengthening: GOS improves gut-barrier integrity by reducing gut permeability and preventing pathogens and toxins from entering the bloodstream. An improved gut barrier helps reduce inflammatory responses and supports immune system function.

Research and References

Studies have shown that VOCs can reduce the risk of allergic diseases, especially in infants and young children. Infant formula supplemented with VOCs is associated with a lower incidence of atopic dermatitis and respiratory allergies. These results indicate that VOC intake early in life may promote the development of a healthy microbiota and reduce the risk of allergic diseases later in life. Thus, it is believed that GOS could have a similar positive effect on children and adults, helping to maintain a healthy gut microflora and strengthening the immune system.

Autoimmunity and VOCs

Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues, causing inflammation and damage. Management of these diseases is challenging because they can affect different organs and systems in the body. Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) have shown potential in the management of autoimmune diseases due to their ability to modulate the immune system, reduce inflammation and restore healthy gut microflora.

Mechanism of action

Microbiota Modification:

  • VOCs as Prebiotics: VOCs act as prebiotics by promoting beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, growth. These bacteria help maintain the balance of intestinal microflora, which is essential for immune system health and prevention of autoimmune reactions.
  • Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCA) Production: When fermented in the gut, VOCs promote the production of SCAs such as butyrate, propionate and acetate. These fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and strengthen the intestinal barrier function, which is essential for the prevention of autoimmune diseases.

Immune System Modulation:

  • Activation of Regulatory T Cells (Tregs): GOS increases the number and activity of regulatory T cells. These cells play an essential role in maintaining immune tolerance by preventing autoimmune reactions.
  • Cytokine Production: VOCs stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10 and reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. It helps reduce inflammatory reactions in the body.

Gut Barrier Strengthening:

  • Intestinal-Barrier Function: GOS improves gut-barrier integrity by reducing intestinal permeability and preventing pathogens and toxins from entering the bloodstream. An improved gut barrier helps reduce the risk of autoimmune reactions.

Management of Autoimmune Diseases with VOCs

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

  • Symptom Alleviation: GOS can help alleviate RA symptoms and reduce disease activity by modulating gut microflora and the immune system.
  • Inflammation Reduction: By reducing levels of inflammatory markers, VOCs can improve patients' quality of life and reduce inflammatory responses.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS):

  • Symptom Reduction: The anti-inflammatory effects of VOCs can help reduce MS symptoms and improve overall health.
  • Modulation of Immune Responses: VOCs help modulate the immune system, which is essential in the management of MS.
  1. Type 2 Diabetes (T1D):
  • Delay Onset: GOS may help delay the onset of T1D by improving gut-barrier function and modulating the immune system.
  • Improving Glucose Metabolism: GOCs can improve glucose metabolism and reduce insulin resistance, which is important in the management of T1D.

System Lupus Scarlet (SLE):

  • Reducing Disease Activity: GOCs can reduce SLE activity by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation.
  • Reducing Inflammatory Responses: VOCs can help reduce inflammatory responses and improve patients' quality of life.

Research and References

Conclusions

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) offer many health benefits, including improving gut health, supporting the immune system, improving mineral absorption, lowering cholesterol, reducing symptoms of lactose intolerance, promoting collagen synthesis and wound healing, improving mental health, supporting hormonal regulation, improving skin health and allergy prevention. These benefits highlight the importance of VOCs as functional food components that can significantly contribute to overall health and well-being. The studied benefits and research results show the potential of VOCs not only as a nutrient, but also as an important element in improving and maintaining various health conditions.

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