Immunonutrition: the role of carbohydrates.
The major role for carbohydrates in the diet is for the provision of energy. Most non-energy-related effects of carbohydrates can be related to short-chain fatty acid production or other effects of bacterial fermentation in the colon. More complex or slowly absorbed carbohydrates may also reduce glycemic index and insulin production and therefore may have a less profound effect on modification of lipid metabolism. Certain carbohydrates may promote fermentation in the colon, increasing short-chain fatty acid production and may alter bacterial flora in the small bowel and colon. Increased insoluble fiber will increase fecal bulk. Further immunomodulary effects of carbohydrates have had little attention in the literature. This would be a potential opportunity for further investigation.
Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, University of Nebraska/Creighton University, Omaha 68114, USA.
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Vanderhoof
D004040:Dietary Carbohydrates / Q000494:pharmacology; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000494:pharmacology; D005285:Fermentation; D006801:Humans; D007109:Immunity; D007422:Intestines / Q000502:physiology; D009005:Monosaccharides / Q000494:pharmacology; D009747:Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D009844:Oligosaccharides / Q000494:pharmacology
D004040:Dietary Carbohydrates; D004043:Dietary Fiber; D009005:Monosaccharides; D009844:Oligosaccharides