Fructooligosaccharides improve bone mass and biomechanical properties in rats

The present study evaluated the effects of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) on the intestinal absorption of Ca and Mg, as well as on bone parameters in healthy growing rats. Male Wistar rats (n = 8 per group) were fed control diets or diets supplemented with 5% FOS ad libitum for 23 days. Apparent mineral absorption in 3 periods of 5 days each (4th, 10th, and 16th days of experiment), bone Ca content and biomechanical properties (peak load, yield load, stiffness, resilience, and absorbed energy) were examined. A higher Ca and Mg apparent absorption was observed in FOS group through all experimental periods when compared with the control group. This effect resulted in a greater bone Ca retention and bone strength variables. The positive effects in intestinal absorption, mineral retention, and biomechanical properties of the bones observed in the present study indicate an important role of FOS in the maintenance of healthy bones. (c) 2006 Published by Elsevier Inc.