A Penn State study reveals that refined dietary fibers, such as guar gum, used in many processed foods, may elevate the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The research found that guar gum could negatively affect intestinal health, according to animal model findings.
A study from Penn State’s Department of Nutritional Sciences highlights a potential risk associated with refined dietary fibers found in many processed foods, including guar gum. This fiber, commonly used as a thickening agent in ice cream, processed cheeses, and other products, has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in animal models.
Guar gum, derived from cluster beans, is known for its thickening and stabilizing properties. The study, published in Gut Microbes, was led by Vishal Singh, assistant professor of nutritional physiology and microbiome. It investigates how ultra-processed diets containing guar gum impact gut microbiome and IBD susceptibility.
The research involved feeding mice an ultra-processed diet with 7.5% guar gum and 2.5% cellulose, while a control group received a diet with 10% cellulose. After four weeks, the mice were given dextran sulfate sodium to induce inflammation. Results showed that mice consuming guar gum developed severe IBD and extensive colon inflammation compared to the control group.
Singh noted that guar gum significantly altered the gut microbiome, particularly increasing levels of Actinobacteriota bacteria. Antibiotic treatment followed by reintroduction of guar gum confirmed that the development of IBD was linked to interactions between this refined fiber and the gut microbiome.
Devendra Paudel, lead author and recent Ph.D. graduate, emphasized that processed guar gum could substantially raise IBD risk. The study aligns with previous research on refined fibers, such as inulin, and underscores the need for further investigation into the effects of isolated dietary fibers on gastrointestinal health.
The researchers acknowledge limitations, including the higher dosage of guar gum used compared to typical human consumption and reliance on mouse models. Singh advocates for more research as fiber supplements become increasingly popular to understand their impact on digestive health.
The Penn State team plans to continue exploring the effects of various refined fibers on gut health in future studies.