High fibre, high prebiotic diet for healthy individuals
The Monash Department of Gastroenterology is researching the impact of a 'high fibre and high natural prebiotic diet'. This diet is designed to establish a healthy balance of gut bacteria, needed for optimal health. While the diet is essentially a high fibre diet, it emphasises the consumption of foods that are high in 'prebiotic' fibres.
What are prebiotics?
Prebiotics are fibre compounds that pass undigested through the stomach and small intestine. When prebiotics arrive in the large intestine, they promote the growth and activity of beneficial (probiotic) bacteria that reside here. Having a healthy balance of gut bacteria may benefit digestion, the absorption of minerals and immune system function.
Resources for the high fibre, high prebiotic diet
The Translational Nutrition research team in the Department of Gastroenterology is researching the impact of a high fibre, high prebiotic diet. As the research progresses, various resources are being created for public use, including the following:
- Video gallery including Professor Peter Gibson and Dr Jane Muir on how prebiotic fibre works in the gut, and research chef Trish Veitch demonstrating how to prepare a number of simple dishes.
- Menu planning
- Recipes
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Further information
- ABC Catalyst program "Gut reaction" broadcast 14 and 21 August 2014
- Department of Gastroenterology