Resistant maltodextrin favorably alters the intestinal environment, short-chain fatty acids, and intestinal bacteria in healthy humans
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: The intestinal environment, associated with various health benefits and disorders, including skin health, can be maintained by dietary fiber intake. Resistant maltodextrin (RMD), a water-soluble dietary fiber, improves the intestinal environment and provides various health benefits. However, its effects in humans remain unclear. Therefore, we examined the effects of ingesting 5 g of RMD per day for 8 weeks on the intestinal environment along with the possibility of concomitant skin function improvement in a randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled study. The results showed that RMD increased fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels and several bacteria known to be involved in SCFA production. It also alters the intestinal bacteria related to several diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Furthermore, the amount of fecal SCFAs and skin moisture on the arms were correlated, indicating that RMD may improve skin health by promoting SCFA production. Overall, we demonstrate that continuous RMD intake partially alters the intestinal environment and potentially skin health.
Institution: Matsutani (Japan)
Language: English
Topic: Gut microbiota and health
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204684019