Effect of resistant starch on potential biomarkers for colonic cancer riskin patients with colonic adenomas - A controlled trial

Resistant starch decreases the concentration of secondary bile acids in the feces and the proliferation rate of colonic mucosal cells in healthy volun teers. This may reduce the risk of colon cancer. We investigated 23 patient s with recently removed colonic adenoma(s) in a controlled parallel trial. They consumed 45 g of maltodextrin per day as placebo for four weeks and we re randomly assigned to either 45 g of native amylomaize starch, containing 28 g of resistant starch type II or 45 g of maltodextrin for another four weeks. No effect on colorectal cell proliferation. fecal wet and dry weight s, pH, and short-chain fatty acid excretion was seen. The bile acid concent ration in fecal water decreased by 15% (P = 0.048) and the percentage secon dary bile acids decreased by 14% (P = 0.002) on resistant starch relative t o placebo. Whether this has a substantial role in colon cancer prevention i n these patients remains to be established.