Effect a yogurt containing galactooligosaccharides (GOS), synthesized from milk lactose by enzymatic action, on calcium absorption (CAABS) and retention during growth

Abstract

GOS are natural prebiotics of human milk. In addition, GOS could be synthesized in dairy products, such as yogurt, by beta-galactosidase action on lactose, giving a reduced-lactose product. GOS fermentation by the acid resistant gut microbiota produces short-chain fatty acid (SCFAs) that could favor CaAbs and Ca bone retention. The effect of yogurt containing GOS on CaAbs and retention was evaluated during normal growth. Male weaning Wistar rats (n=10 per group) received during 30 days AIN´93-G control diet (CD) or the yogurt containing GOS diet (ED).The results evidence the functional characteristics of the assayed yogurt. Moreover, the higher CaAbs and the similar bone mass suggest a beneficial effect on bone health, especially in subject with lactose intolerance.