Combined Buckwheat D-Fagomine and Fish Omega-3 PUFAs Stabilize the Populations of Gut Prevotella and Bacteroides While Reducing Weight Gain in Rats

Identifier:  imarina:6012538

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina6012538

Authors:  Hereu, Merce; Ramos-Romero, Sara; Marin-Valls, Roser; Amezqueta, Susana; Miralles-Perez, Bernat; Romeu, Marta; Mendez, Lucia; Medina, Isabel; Lluis Torres, Josep

Abstract:
Some functional food components may help maintain homeostasis by promoting balanced gut microbiota. Here, we explore the possible complementary effects of D-fagomine and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid/docosahexaenoic acid (EPA/DHA 1:1) on putatively beneficial gut bacterial strains. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were supplemented with D-fagomine, omega-3 PUFAs, or both, for 23 weeks. Bacterial subgroups were evaluated in fecal DNA by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and short-chain fatty acids were determined by gas chromatography. We found that the populations of the genus Prevotella remained stable over time in animals supplemented with D-fagomine, independently of omega-3 PUFA supplementation. Animals in these groups gained less weight than controls and rats given only omega-3 PUFAs. D-Fagomine supplementation together with omega-3 PUFAs maintained the relative populations of Bacteroides. omega-3 PUFAs alone or combined with D-fagomine reduced the amount of acetic acid and total short-chain fatty acids in feces. The plasma levels of pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid derived metabolites, triglycerides and cholesterol were lower in both groups supplemented with omega-3 PUFAs. The D-fagomine and omega-3 PUFAs combination provided the functional benefits of each supplement. Notably, it helped stabilize populations of Prevotella in the rat intestinal tract while reducing weight gain and providing the anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits of omega-3 PUFAs.