Abstract
Resistant glucan (RG) is a water-soluble polysaccharide resistant to hydrolysis by digestive enzymes in the human gastrointestinal system. RG mixture (RGM) contains more than 75% RG as dietary fiber and other saccharides. The effects of ingestion of 3.3, 6.6, and 13.2 g/d of RGM (containing of 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 g/d RG as dietary fiber) on the fecal properties and the frequency of defecation were investigated in 60 female volunteers with constipation. The study was designed as a randomized, single-blinded, and placebo-controlled parallel-group trial. Each subject consumed RGM or a placebo (digestible maltodextrin) for 2 wk. Questionnaire data on the effects on bowel movement were analyzed according to defecation days, defecation frequency, fecal volume, fecal shapes, fecal color, fecal odor, and fecal excretory feeling. The results showed significant increases in defecation frequency (p<0.05), defecation days (p<0.05), and fecal volume (p<0.05) during the 13.2 g/d RGM ingestion period. The effects of RGM on defecation days and frequency showed a dose-dependent increase (p<0.05). These results suggested that the intake of RGM increased defecation days, defecation frequency, and fecal volume. In the gastrointestinal tract, RGM is useful as a water-soluble dietary fiber for the improvement of bowel movements.
