Gastrointestinal transit time, glucose homeostasis and metabolic health: Modulation by dietary fibers

authored by

M. Müller, E.E. Canfora, E.E. Blaak

Abstract

Gastrointestinal transit time may be an important determinant of glucose homeostasis and metabolic health through effects on nutrient absorption and microbial composition, among other mechanisms. Modulation of gastrointestinal transit may be one of the mechanisms underlying the beneficial health effects of dietary fibers. These effects include improved glucose homeostasis and a reduced risk of developing metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this review, we first discuss the regulation of gastric emptying rate, small intestinal transit and colonic transit as well as their relation to glucose homeostasis and metabolic health. Subsequently, we briefly address the reported health effects of different dietary fibers and discuss to what extent the fiber-induced health benefits may be mediated through modulation of gastrointestinal transit.

External Organisation(s)

Maastricht University Medical Center

Type

Article

Journal

NUTRIENTS

Volume

10

ISSN

2072-6643

Publication date

03.2018

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

Electronic version(s)

https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10030275 (Access: Open)