scispace - formally typeset
Search or ask a question

What are the potential health benefits of incorporating xanthan gum into a diet for individuals with digestive issues? 

Carbohydrate metabolism
Metabolism
Polysaccharide
Colonisation resistance
Dysbiosis
Best insight from top research papers

Incorporating xanthan gum into the diet of individuals with digestive issues can offer several health benefits. Xanthan gum has been found to be efficiently digested by gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bacteroidales and Prevotella . This can lead to improved glucose metabolism, reduced inflammation, and enhanced insulin sensitivity in individuals with conditions like type 2 diabetes . Additionally, xanthan gum consumption can increase the production of short-chain fatty acids, such as butyric acid, which play a crucial role in gut health and overall well-being . Furthermore, xanthan gum has shown potential in altering the gut microbiota to enhance resistance against pathogen colonization, particularly against Clostridioides difficile, thus aiding in maintaining a healthy gut environment .

Answers from top 4 papers

More filters
Papers (4)Insight
Open access•Posted Content•DOI
The Food Additive Xanthan Gum Drives Adaptation of the Human Gut Microbiota
Matthew Ostrowski, La Rosa Sl, Benoit J. Kunath, Robertson A, Gabriel V. Pereira, Live Heldal Hagen, Neha Varghese, Qiu L, Tianming Yao, Flint G, J. Li, S.P. McDonald, Buttner D, Nicholas A. Pudlo, Matthew K. Schnizlein, Vincent B. Young, Harry Brumer, Thomas M. Schmidt, Nicolas Terrapon, Lombard, Bernard Henrissat, Bernard Henrissat, Bruce R. Hamaker, Emiley A. Eloe-Fadrosh, Ashootosh Tripathi, Phillip B. Pope, Eric C. Martens 
30 Jun 2021-bioRxiv
1 Citations
Xanthan gum promotes the establishment of a gut bacterial food chain, aiding in its digestion, potentially benefiting individuals with digestive issues by supporting gut microbiota adaptation.
Journal Article•DOI
Xanthan gum oligosaccharides ameliorate glucose metabolism and related gut microbiota dysbiosis in type 2 diabetic mice
Jingjing Xu, Wu Sun, Huan Li, Zexin Gao, Guoao Hu, Jianrong Wu, Hongtao Zhang, Zhitao Li, Minjie Gao, Li Zhu, Xiaobei Zhan 
01 Aug 2022-Food bioscience
2 Citations
Xanthan gum oligosaccharides (XGOS) can improve glucose metabolism and gut microbiota in type 2 diabetic mice, suggesting potential benefits for individuals with digestive issues.
Open access•Journal Article•DOI
Mechanistic insights into consumption of the food additive xanthan gum by the human gut microbiota
Matthew P. Ostrowski, Sabina Leanti La Rosa, Benoit J. Kunath, A Robertson, Gabriel V. Pereira, Live Heldal Hagen, Neha Varghese, Ling Qiu, Tianming Yao, Gabrielle Flint, James Li, Sean McDonald, Duna Buttner, Nicholas A. Pudlo, Matthew K. Schnizlein, Vincent B. Young, Harry Brumer, Thomas M. Schmidt, Nicolas Terrapon, Vincent Lombard, Bernard Henrissat, Bruce R. Hamaker, Emiley A. Eloe-Fadrosh, Ashootosh Tripathi, Phillip B. Pope, Eric C. Martens 
01 Apr 2022-Nature microbiology
15 Citations
Xanthan gum can potentially benefit individuals with digestive issues by being digested by specific gut bacteria, potentially aiding in gut health and microbiome balance.
Open access•Posted Content•DOI
Dietary xanthan gum alters antibiotic efficacy against the murine gut microbiota and attenuates Clostridioides difficile colonization
Matthew K. Schnizlein, Kimberly C. Vendrov, Summer J. Edwards, Eric C. Martens, Vincent B. Young 
30 Sep 2019-bioRxiv
4 Citations
Incorporating xanthan gum into the diet may enhance gut microbiota diversity, increase fiber-degrading taxa, and potentially reduce susceptibility to Clostridioides difficile colonization in individuals with digestive issues.

Related Questions

Increased value/quantity of Xanthan gum fiber after fermentation for gut health?8 answersThe fermentation of dietary fibers, including xanthan gum, plays a significant role in promoting gut health by enhancing the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and modulating the gut microbiota composition. Xanthan gum oligosaccharides (XGOS), a derivative of xanthan gum, have been shown to ameliorate glucose metabolism in type 2 diabetic mice, which is associated with alterations in gut microbiota and the activation of SCFA receptors in the liver. This indicates the potential of xanthan gum fermentation products to contribute positively to gut health. Fermentation processes can be optimized to increase the yield and efficiency of xanthan gum production, as demonstrated by a novel formulation applied to a fed-batch bioreactor, resulting in a significant increase in product formation. Additionally, an oxygen dissolving method in the xanthan gum fermentation procedure has been developed to reduce the fermentation period and improve the finished product yield rate by 15-20 percent. This method highlights the importance of optimizing fermentation conditions to enhance the production of beneficial fibers like xanthan gum. Moreover, the application of xanthan gum produced through fermentation has been expanded beyond its traditional uses, with novel xanthan gum showing potential as a dietary fiber due to its small molecular weight and loose structure. This form of xanthan gum hydrates more quickly than commercial-grade xanthan gum and can be used in higher amounts in food, suggesting its utility in promoting gut health. Mutants of Xanthomonas campestris have been isolated to accumulate more xanthan gum than the wild-type in culture broths, further augmenting the effects of fermentation on xanthan gum productivity. This genetic optimization points to the potential for increased production of xanthan gum, which, when fermented, could offer enhanced benefits for gut health through its prebiotic effects. In summary, the fermentation of xanthan gum and its derivatives has been shown to offer significant benefits for gut health, including the modulation of gut microbiota and the production of SCFAs. Optimizing fermentation processes and genetic strains can increase the value and quantity of xanthan gum, making it a more effective dietary fiber for promoting gut health.
What influence does fiber have on digestion?4 answersFiber has various influences on digestion. Soluble fiber can interfere with the digestibility of fat and other nutrients, leading to a decrease in absorption and energy availability. On the other hand, insoluble fiber is more related to effects on energy dilution and increasing fecal bulk. Fiber can also modify the physical properties of gastrointestinal fluids, such as viscosity and water-holding capacity, which can influence nutrient diffusion and gut microbiota growth. Additionally, fiber can promote the proliferation of beneficial bacteria and restrain the production of harmful bacteria in the intestinal tract. The inclusion of fiber in emulsions can improve their stability and increase the daily uptake of dietary fiber, while also counteracting absorption deficiencies due to better fat digestibility. Overall, fiber plays a crucial role in digestion by affecting nutrient absorption, gut microbiota, and the physical properties of gastrointestinal fluids.
How does fiber intake effect the digestive system?4 answersFiber intake has several effects on the digestive system. Firstly, dietary fiber slows down the absorption of macronutrients and decreases serum cholesterol, which helps decrease the risk of obesity-related diseases. Secondly, fiber enhances satiety and reduces food intake at future meals, contributing to weight management. Thirdly, fiber alters the gut microbiota and produces metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, which play a role in obesity prevention and treatment. Additionally, fiber modulates the bioavailability of nutrients, affects the rheological and colloidal state of digesta, and binds with various compounds in the digestive tract. Finally, fiber fermentation in the large intestine influences the composition of the gut microbiota, which has implications for overall health. Overall, fiber intake has a significant impact on the digestive system, affecting nutrient absorption, satiety, gut microbiota, and overall health.
Digesting cellulose in humans, necessary addition to a healthy diet. Why?5 answersDigesting cellulose is necessary to add to a healthy diet because it aids in cellulose digestion and can have positive effects on blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that cellulase activity in the gastrointestinal tract is significant and can be influenced by cellulose supplementation in the diet. Additionally, cellulolytic bacteria have been found in the feces of humans, indicating the presence of natural cellulose-digesting organisms in the gut. Understanding how cellulases catalyze the digestion of cellulose is important for bioenergy research, highlighting the significance of cellulose digestion in humans. Furthermore, a diet high in coarse vegetables, fruits, and whole grain cereals, which are rich in cellulose, can help prevent constipation and promote gastrointestinal health. Therefore, including cellulose in a healthy diet can contribute to proper digestion and overall well-being.
How long do Fiber Gummies take to digest?8 answers
Which fiber supplement is best for IBS?3 answers

See what other people are reading

How can reduce depression symptoms by gut microbiota?
5 answers
To reduce depression symptoms through gut microbiota, interventions like prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics have shown promise. Prebiotics such as inulin-type fructans, galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and human milk oligosaccharides, along with probiotics, can positively impact depressive symptoms by improving gut health. The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in this relationship, with dysbiosis potentially contributing to mental disorders. Studies suggest that manipulating the gut microbiota with prebiotics, probiotics, or synbiotics can significantly alleviate symptoms of depression, especially in cases of mild-to-moderate depression. Additionally, the administration of psychobiotics and metabiotics, in conjunction with traditional treatments, has shown effectiveness in managing mental disorders, including depression. These interventions offer a novel approach to addressing depressive symptoms by targeting the gut-brain axis and promoting overall well-being.How does kiwi fruit contribute to digestive health?
5 answers
Kiwifruit contributes to digestive health through various mechanisms. Firstly, kiwifruit polysaccharides have been shown to protect against acrylamide-induced toxicity by regulating gut microbiota and metabolism, improving body features and liver function. Secondly, both green and gold kiwifruit varieties contain actinidin, a proteolytic enzyme that aids in the breakdown and digestion of proteins, potentially benefiting groups like athletes and the elderly. Additionally, kiwifruit components like dietary fiber and organic acids reduce the amplitude of the glycemic response to co-consumed starch, highlighting their role in managing blood sugar levels and overall gut health. These findings collectively demonstrate how kiwifruit can positively impact digestive health through microbiota regulation, protein digestion enhancement, and glycemic control.What is amino acid biosynthesis?
5 answers
Amino acid biosynthesis is the process by which living organisms produce amino acids, essential for protein synthesis and various biological functions. This intricate metabolic pathway involves the assembly of amino acids from precursor molecules, with nitrogen playing a crucial role in distinguishing it from lipid or carbohydrate biosynthesis. The biosynthesis of amino acids is tightly linked to central carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur metabolism, as seen in diatoms and higher plants, where pathways are similar but with notable differences like the presence of the urea cycle in diatoms. In organisms like Escherichia coli, amino acid synthesis and regulation are well-studied, highlighting the interconnections between pathways and the role of degradation in maintaining intracellular amino acid levels. Additionally, amino acid biosynthesis involves various enzymatic reactions and mechanisms, starting from citric acid cycle intermediates, as detailed in biochemical pathways.What is the relationship between ADHD and leaky gut syndrome?
5 answers
ADHD and leaky gut syndrome exhibit a significant relationship, as indicated by various studies. Research suggests that intestinal permeability, reflected by gut leakage biomarkers like zonulin, occludin, and defensin, may be linked to ADHD susceptibility. Furthermore, dysbiosis in the gut mycobiome, particularly an increase in Candida species, and enhanced intestinal permeability have been associated with ADHD. Genome-scale metabolic models have identified specific gut microbiota indicators like Coprococcus, Collinsella, and Bacteroides, potentially linked to ADHD. Additionally, a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis revealed a potential causal relationship between specific gut microbiota taxa and ADHD, highlighting the role of microbes like Eubacteriumhalliigroup and RuminococcaceaeUCG013 in ADHD risk. These findings collectively emphasize the intricate interplay between gut health, microbial composition, and ADHD development.How do polyphenols influence the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation?
5 answers
Polyphenols, abundant in fruits and vegetables, impact cardiovascular disease risk factors by targeting various mechanisms. They inhibit lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity, potentially reducing lipid uptake into arteries. Polyphenols interact with gut microbiota, influencing chronic disease development, including cardiovascular issues. Through antioxidant properties, polyphenols combat oxidative stress, a key player in cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, polyphenols and their derivatives modulate gut dysbiosis, potentially preventing atherosclerosis and heart disease. To enhance bioavailability, nano-encapsulated polyphenols show promise in cardiovascular therapy, improving solubility and controlled release for better efficacy. Overall, polyphenols exhibit multifaceted effects on blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation, offering a holistic approach to cardiovascular disease prevention and management.Can manipulation of the environmental microbiome impact the health and function of the animal gut microbiome?
5 answers
Manipulation of the environmental microbiome can indeed impact the health and function of the animal gut microbiome. Environmental stressors like pollution, parasites, and competition can alter the gut microbiome composition, leading to detrimental effects on the host's health, such as metabolic dysfunction and inflammation. In poultry, fluctuations in the microbiome due to environmental conditions can affect bird productivity and health, as the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in protecting against pathogens and aiding in nutrient production and immune system maturation. Additionally, selection for resilience in livestock can shift the gut microbiome composition, influencing inflammatory responses and metabolic processes, ultimately contributing to differences in animal resilience. Therefore, understanding and managing the environmental microbiome is essential for maintaining a healthy and functional animal gut microbiome.What is the composition of the bacterial microbiota of human skin?
5 answers
The bacterial microbiota of human skin is diverse and primarily composed of Actinobacteriota, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidota phyla, with dominant genera like Cutibacterium, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, and others. Factors influencing the skin microbiome include intrinsic characteristics like gender, age, and genetics, as well as external factors such as lifestyle, diet, hygiene, and environmental conditions. Skin microbiota play a crucial role in maintaining skin health and preventing diseases. Dysbiosis, or imbalance in the skin microbiome, can lead to various skin disorders like atopic dermatitis, acne, chronic wounds, psoriasis, and viral transmission. Understanding the interaction between the skin microbiota and human health can lead to novel therapeutic strategies utilizing skin bacteria.Can probiotic therapy modulate the immune response and be beneficial in treating psoriasis in children?
5 answers
Probiotic therapy has emerged as a promising adjuvant in the management of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, by modulating the immune response and potentially benefiting patients, including children. The World Health Organization defines probiotics as live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host when administered in adequate amounts, which includes the regulation of both innate and adaptive immune responses, a mechanism that is crucial in the context of autoimmune diseases like psoriasis. Research has shown that specific probiotic strains can ameliorate psoriasis-like pathological characteristics in models by suppressing inflammatory cytokines related to the IL-23/T helper cell 17 (Th17) axis, which plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Clinical trials have demonstrated that probiotics can lead to significant improvements in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and inflammatory markers, indicating a reduction in disease activity and an enhancement in the quality of life for patients with psoriasis. These benefits are attributed to the stabilization of the gut bacterial community and the restoration of the gut microbiome's "signature," which in turn can lower the pH, produce bacteriocins, and improve gut barrier function. Furthermore, the modulation of the gut microbiome with probiotics has been linked to improved clinical outcomes, chronic inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors in psoriasis patients. While the reviewed literature and clinical trials predominantly focus on adult populations, the underlying mechanisms through which probiotics exert their beneficial effects—such as immune modulation, restoration of gut microbiome balance, and reduction of inflammatory cytokines—are applicable to children with psoriasis. However, it is crucial to conduct further research specifically targeting pediatric populations to fully understand the efficacy and safety of probiotic therapy in children with psoriasis.Are there any known functional implications of the differences in plasmalogens content between avian and mammalian tissues?
5 answers
Differences in plasmalogen content between avian and mammalian tissues have functional implications. Plasmalogens, with unique structures, play crucial roles in cellular functions. They are essential for membrane integrity, cell signaling, and act as antioxidants. Studies suggest that plasmalogens are involved in preventing neuroinflammation, improving cognitive function, and inhibiting neuronal cell death. Moreover, plasmalogens deficiency is linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, indicating their importance in neurological health. Avian tissues may have different plasmalogen profiles impacting functions like membrane fluidity, signaling, and oxidative stress response compared to mammalian tissues. Understanding these differences could provide insights into the unique physiological adaptations and potential therapeutic strategies for diseases related to plasmalogen imbalance.Are there microbes that can improve autism symptoms?
5 answers
Microbes, particularly probiotics, have shown promise in improving symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Studies have highlighted the potential of probiotics in addressing gastrointestinal abnormalities and ASD-related behaviors. Research has demonstrated that probiotic interventions can lead to increased microbial diversity, beneficial shifts in gut microbiome composition, and reductions in gastrointestinal discomfort in individuals with ASD. Furthermore, interventions like microbiota transfer therapy (MTT) have shown significant and long-term improvements in ASD and GI symptoms by increasing the abundance of beneficial microbes and altering metabolic pathways. While probiotics have been found to improve gastrointestinal symptoms in ASD individuals, the direct impact on ASD symptoms remains inconclusive. Overall, targeting the gut microbiota through probiotics holds promise as a potential therapeutic approach for subsets of individuals with ASD.How do Lysophosphatidylcholines affect obesity?
5 answers
Lysophosphatidylcholines (LPCs) play a significant role in obesity-related metabolic changes. Studies show that obesity is linked to alterations in the lipidomic profile, with LPCs being highlighted as potential biomarkers of obesity. In individuals with obesity, there is an increase in lysophospholipids (lyso-PLs) and lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 3 (LPCAT3) expression, impacting skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, a strong correlation exists between lysophosphatidylcholine levels and muscle contractile force, with LPCAT3 influencing muscle strength and myopathy development in obesity. Additionally, specific LPC species like LPC (17:0) have been found to reduce blood glucose, alleviate insulin resistance, and activate G protein-coupled receptors, suggesting a protective role against hyperglycemia and insulin resistance in obesity-related conditions.