The study examines the effects of a 6-week supplementation period with a dietary fibre product (type of wheat bran) on intestinal barrier function, intestinal inflammation, intestinal microbiota, and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with MC. The study subjects will consume the study products (placebo-fibre, butyrate-promoting fibre) as a powder supplemented to their daily habitual diet. A maltodextrin-based product is used as placebo. After giving their informed consent, the study subjects fill out a background questionnaire to assess their eligibility for the study (Visit 1). Participants deemed suitable for the study will be randomised into two study arms (placebo-fibre, butyrate-promoting fibre) before undergoing a baseline visit (Visit 2) before the start of the intervention period. After the 6-week intervention period, the participants will come back for a final visit (Visit 3). In vivo intestinal permeability will be measured using the standard multi-sugar test at visits 2 and 3. Blood and faecal samples will also be collected during visits 2 and 3. In addition to the visits described above, a subset of patients (max. 20) will undergo a colonoscopy before and at the end of the intervention period at Örebro University Hospital where an experienced gastroenterologist collects 16 colonic biopsies. These colonic biopsies are mounted in an Ussing chamber system to specifically study colonic permeability. During visits 2 and 3, the participants also complete questionnaires to assess their gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life, physical activity, and dietary habits. During the study period, the participants will also keep a daily diary recording the number of diarrheal and loose stools. The participants are asked to maintain their habitual diet and lifestyle as well as not to consume probiotic or prebiotic supplements.
This study examines how a fermentable dietary fibre known to promote butyrate production impacts intestinal barrier function, intestinal microbiota, intestinal inflammation, and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with microscopic colitis.