Non-starch polysaccharides extracted from seaweed can modulate intestinal absorption of glucose and insulin response in the pig

We have investigated the possible effects of algal polysaccharides on postp randial blood glucose and insulin responses in an animal model, the pig. Th ree seaweed fibres of different viscosities, extracted from Palmaria palmat a (PP), Eucheuma cottonii (EC), or Laminaria digitata (LD), were compared t o purified cellulose (CEL). Blood glucose and plasma insulin levels were mo nitored and intestinal absorption quantified for 8 h following a high carbo hydrate test-meal supplemented with 5% fibre. Digestive contents were also sampled, 5 h postprandial. As compared to GEL, PP had no effect on glucose and insulin responses. The latter decreased with EC, but glucose absorption balance was not modified. LD addition resulted in a dramatically reduced g lucose absorption balance, accompanied by a higher amount of starch left in the small intestine. Among polysaccharides tested, only the highly viscous alginates could affect intestinal absorption of glucose and insulin respon se.