The Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Nutraceutical and Functional Food (NFF), PSU, created prebiotic food supplements for healthy adults from dragon fruit extract.
NFF director Asst. Prof. Dr. Santad Wichienchot pointed out that oligosaccharides are a well-known prebiotic for stimulating microbial growth in the digestive tract. Previous studies have shown that dragon fruit contains prebiotic oligosaccharide carbohydrates.
Its ability to stimulate and balance the microbial flora in the digestive tract was observed both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, animal studies also showed its effectiveness in stimulating the immune system.
After successful experiments in rats, research continues to explore the potential dietary benefits and safety for human consumption. Prebiotic properties are also observed, such as promoting the growth of good microbes in the digestive tract and the strengthening of the immune system.
Research has been ongoing for 8 years, with two years of human research. A total of 30 fruits have been tested, and it was found that dragon fruit contains the most prebiotic oligosaccharides, followed by jackfruit.
The NFF director stated that clinical levels of dragon fruit extract were administered to 108 healthy adult volunteers, in order to observe the health effects of promoting the growth of good microbes in the digestive tract and the promotion of immunity. The results showed that the tested productsare safe to consume. Consuming products of 4 grams and 8 grams per day results in significant immunity boost. The tested products reduced cholesterol levels and increased good microbes, Bifidobacteria, significantly. At the same time, Lactobacillus decreased slightly in every test group. The products did not affect any change in Clostridium.
This research was conducted in cooperation with Welltech Biotechnology Co., Ltd. located in Samut Sakhon province. The technology has been transferred to the company and can be used in factory settings. Currently, the company awaits clinical research results in order to apply for permission from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for commercial production. The next phase of this research will involve testing the product’s effects on the immune system of the elderly.
