Abstract
Effects of partially hydrolyzed guar gum on the gastrointestinal function were studied. The fine structure of the intestinal mucosal surface was observed by scanning electron microscopy in rats fed a partially hydrolyzed guar gum diet for four weeks. The surface structures of ileal and cecal mucosa changed markedly abnormal in the rats fed the partially hydrolyzed guar gum diet; their microvilli of partially hydrolyzed guar gum diet group were more tightly packed than those of the cellulose diet group, and some intestinal contents adhered much more to the tops of the microvilli in the partially hydrolyzed guar gum diet group. The rats fed the partially hydrolyzed guar gum diet showed a significant increment in the weight of the cecum and in its contents, and decrement in the fecal weight, in comparing with those fed the cellulose diet. The transit time of gastrointestinal tract was extended by the partially hydrolyzed guar gum supplementation. In conclusion, the partially hydrolyzed guar gum feeding exerted effects on the ileal and cecal mucosal surface structure, and it is suggested that these effects are related to the viscosity of the intestinal contents.
