The use of prebiotics to optimize gut function in pigs

Description

Colonization of the porcine gut microbiota commences after birth; however, this development is interrupted at weaning, rendering the piglet vulnerable to enteric disease. Dietary supplementation of non-digestible oligosaccharides can contribute to the stabilization of gut homeostasis by promotion of saccharolytic bacteria, inhibition of opportunistic pathogens, bacterial metabolite production and immune regulation. Whilst traditionally fructans and galactooligosaccharides have been added to weaner pig diets, supplementation of sow’s gestation and lactation diets and oral administration of suckling piglets may exert some beneficial effects too to promote gut microbiota and (immune) function development. Oligosaccharides in sow milk act as prebiotics by specifically shaping the gut microbiota of the offspring. This chapter summarizes the current knowledge on effects of prebiotic oligosaccharides on porcine gut function and health. The modes of actions of those substances are discussed as well as aspects that need more investigation for future applications in diets for suckling piglets.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Maintenance of gut health and functionality 3 The porcine gut microbiome 4 Definition of prebiotics 5 Prebiotic di-oligosaccharides in pig nutrition 6 Modes of action of prebiotics 7 Optimization of gut function by fructans and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) 8 Prebiotic effects on gut functions in the early postnatal phase 9 Gut effects of porcine milk oligosaccharides 10 Future trends in research 11 Where to look for further information 12 References