What a relief: Sunfiber may alleviate constipation and lessen irritability in autistic children

28 May 2019 --- Soluble guar fiber may help improve constipation and irritability in children within the autism spectrum, according to a new pilot study from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine (KPUM) in Japan. The researchers found that supplementation with six grams of Taiyo’s Sunfiber modulated the gut microbiome and led to less irritability in the behavior of children taking part in the trial. The findings open opportunities for developing new formulations within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) market, according to the researchers.

“These researchers found that a modest dose of Sunfiber produced results on four levels: tangible (less constipation); prebiotic (modulation of the gut microbiome); biomarker (fewer inflammatory cytokines), and behavioral (less irritability),” says Derek Timm, Ph.D., Technical Sales Director for Taiyo International.

The study was published in the Journal of Clinical Biochemical Nutrition and followed 12 boys and one girl, ranging from four to nine years old. 

The researchers supplemented the daily diet of the children, who have been diagnosed with ASD and were experiencing constipation and irritable behavior, with Sunfiber. The findings showed that within one week, all children experienced an increase in defecation, going from one-two times per week to two-four times per week. Their irritability, measured on a standardized scale, also improved significantly, according to the findings.

Approximately one out of 60 children in the US has been diagnosed with ASD. Most of these children also have chronic digestive issues – including constipation and a leaky gut – because their good gut bacteria (probiotics) are out of balance. These gut disorders can often contribute to a child’s irritability. 

Sunfiber is a water-soluble bean fiber derived from the Indian Guar Bean (Partially hydrolyzed guar gum, PHGG). It is prepared by enzymatic fermentation and is also tasteless, colorless and odorless. Sunfiber is touted as improving the functionality of foods and beverages, offering a high dietary fiber content and stability. Clinically proven to lower glycemic index, improve mineral absorption and promote intestinal regularity, Sunfiber is slowly fermented by the gut bacteria, especially by Bifidus bacteria. Sunfiber is also the first fiber and first standalone ingredient to become a Monash University Low FODMAP-certified product.

Good bacteria in the gut create most of the dopamine, serotonin and other neurotransmitters responsible for mood. When gut bacteria are imbalanced, they send improper signals to the brain. Soluble, prebiotic fiber feeds the gut’s good bacteria and helps it establish a healthier probiotic balance in the gut. Essentially, using soluble fiber to support gut health may result in behavioral improvements. 

Previously, Timm spoke to NutritionInsight about the company’s soluble fiber ingredient; Although Sunfiber has mainly been featured in medical and beverage applications, Taiyo plans to broaden this scope by combining the ingredient with other bioactives to target health concerns that go beyond digestion, the gut and regularity. For example, Taiyo’s entry into the “mood food” space is signified by its range of products targeting the “gut-brain axis.”

The company has also previously launched Sunphenon teas and Xia Oil as convenient, safe and suitable for a range of applications at Vitafoods last week. Taiyo also exhibited plans to further increase knowledge around tea as a health drink and its innovative beverage combinations with lasting Taiyo ingredients such as Sunfiber. The products in question can be used in an array of drinks applications, packing health punches that range from omega 3 boosts to fiber enrichment.