Method for increasing propionate in the gastro-intestinal tract

摘要

A method for selectively increasing the production of propionate in the gastro-intestinal tract of a mammal. The method includes the step of enterally administering to the mammal a nutritional composition which contains dextran. Increasing the propionate production results in decreased blood cholesterol levels, decreased blood triglyceride levels, decreased very low density lipoprotein levels, increased high density lipoprotein levels, and increased insulin sensitivity.