Effect of Methylcellulose or Psyllium on Fermentation of inUlin Assessed USing MRI
Our challenge is to understand how fibre interacts with whole-gut function to alter colonic fermentation of FODMAPs. We will exploit the recent availability of a range of food grade modified celluloses which can form gels at body temperature to perform human studies to explore whether the beneficial effect of psyllium is unique or will be found with all gelling substances (4). We are currently performing the COCOA2 study using a modified methylcellulose (results awaited). We now wish to perform a pilot study to image what happens in the colon when methylcellulose is ingested to enable us to plan the next step in our research programme.
- EligibilityCriteria: Inclusion Criteria:  Able to give informed consent. Scoring ≤5 (i.e., mild, or less) for symptoms of flatulence, bloating, abdominal pain, loose stool, and hard stool in previous 2 weeks using a modified Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (5). Agrees to consume the meals provided. Agrees to not smoke during the breath hydrogen sampling period.  Exclusion Criteria:  • Pregnancy, lactating, or planning pregnancy during the course of the investigation declared by candidate.  History declared by the candidate of pre-existing gastrointestinal disorder that may affect bowel function. Reported history of previous resection of the oesophagus, stomach, or intestine (excluding appendix). Intestinal stoma. Have contraindications for MRI scanning i.e. metallic implants, pacemakers, history of metallic foreign body in eye(s) and penetrating eye injury. Unable to lie flat and relatively still for less than 5 minutes. Any medical condition making participation potentially compromising participation in the study e.g., diabetes mellitus, respiratory disease limiting ability to use breath hydrogen analyser, known intolerance to one of the test substances. Has a body mass index (BMI) value less than 18.5 or greater than 35. Will not agree to follow dietary and lifestyle restrictions required. Unable to stop drugs known to alter GI motility including mebeverine, opiates, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, phenothiazines, benzodiazepines, calcium channel antagonists for the duration of the study (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, low dose tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines, and oral contraceptive pill will be recorded in the CRF but will not be an exclusion criteria). Participants who are taking antibiotics or probiotics as it might alters gut microbiota. Poor understanding of English language. Participation in night shift work the week prior to the study day. Night work is defined as working between midnight and 6.00 AM. Anyone who in the opinion of the investigator is unlikely to be able to comply with the protocol e.g., cognitive dysfunction, chaotic lifestyle related to substance abuse. Having taken part in a research study in the last 3 months involving invasive procedures or an inconvenience allowance. - HealthyVolunteers: Accepts Healthy Volunteers - Gender: All - MinimumAge: 18 Years - StdAgeList: Adult, Older Adult