Galacto-oligosaccharides, also known as oligogalactosyllactose, oligogalactose, oligolactose or transgalactooligosaccharides, belong to the group of prebiotics. Prebiotics are defined as non-digestible food ingredients that beneficially affect the host by stimulating the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon. GOS occurs in commercially available products such as food for both infants and adults.
Chemistry
The composition of the galacto-oligosaccharide fraction varies in chain length and type of linkage between the monomer units. Galacto-oligosaccharides are produced through the enzymatic conversion of lactose, a component of bovine milk. A range of factors come into play when determining the yield, style, and type of GOS produced. These factors include:
GOS generally comprise a chain of galactose units that arise through consecutive transgalactosylation reactions, with a terminal glucose unit. However, where a terminal galactose unit is indicated, hydrolysis of GOS formed at an earlier stage in the process has occurred. The degree of polymerization of GOS can vary quite markedly, ranging from 2 to 8 monomeric units, depending mainly on the type of the enzyme used and the conversion degree of lactose.
Health effects
Because of the configuration of their glycosidic bonds, galacto-oligosaccharides largely resist hydrolysis by salivary and intestinal digestive enzymes. Galacto-oligosaccharides are classified as prebiotics, defined as non-digestible food ingredients that beneficially affect the host by stimulating the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon. The increased activity of these health-promoting bacteria results in a number of effects, both directly by the bacteria themselves or indirectly by the organic acids they produce via fermentation. Examples of effects are stimulation of immune functions, absorption of essential nutrients, production of the powerful anti-oxidant H2 gas and syntheses of certain vitamins.
Stimulating bacteria
Galacto-oligosaccharides are a substrate for bacteria, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Studies with infants and adults have shown that foods or drinks enriched with galacto-oligosaccharides result in a significant increase in bifidobacteria.
Immune response
Human gut microbiota play a key role in the intestinal immune system. Galacto-oligosaccharides support natural defenses of the human body via the gut microflora, indirectly by increasing the number of bacteria in the gut and inhibiting the binding or survival of Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium and Clostridia. GOS can positively influence the immune system indirectly through the production of antimicrobial substances, reducing the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria.
Constipation is a potential problem, particularly among infants, elderly and pregnant women. In infants, formula feeding may be associated with constipation and hard stools. Galacto-oligosaccharides may improve stool frequency and relieve symptoms related to constipation.
