International Journal of Molecular Medical Science, 2025, Vol.15, No.1, 1-8 http://medscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmms 2 functional beverage market. By integrating scientific exploration with practical applications, this study offers innovative solutions for the functional beverage industry and personalized nutrition, contributing to the improvement of public health. 2 Characteristics of Compound Dietary Fiber and Probiotics 2.1 Classification and function of compound dietary fiber Dietary fiber is a heterogeneous, indigestible carbohydrate primarily derived from plants. Based on its solubility in water, it can be classified into two categories: soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber, such as pectin and β-glucans, forms viscous gels in water, slowing the digestion and absorption of nutrients, thereby regulating blood sugar levels and cholesterol. Insoluble fiber, including cellulose and lignin, supports gastrointestinal health by increasing stool bulk and promoting regular bowel movements (Macagnan et al., 2016). Compound dietary fibers are created by combining different types of fibers to enhance their functional properties. This approach also improves the sensory characteristics and nutritional value of food products, making them suitable for use in functional beverages (Chen, 2024). Emerging technologies, such as ultrasound and microwave-assisted extraction, are being explored to improve fiber extraction efficiency and reduce processing costs (Tejeda and Kim, 2021). 2.2 Promotion of intestinal health by compound dietary fiber Compound dietary fibers significantly contribute to intestinal health by serving as a major energy source for the gut microbiota. They undergo fermentation in the colon, producing Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) that are essential for the nutrition and integrity of colonocytes (Barber et al., 2020). This fermentation process also creates an antioxidant environment in the colon, which can help in reducing inflammation and promoting gut health (Nazhand et al., 2020). Additionally, certain soluble fibers function as prebiotics, positively modulating the intestinal microbiota and enhancing the gut's immune response. The consumption of compound dietary fibers is associated with improved gut motility, reduced risk of colorectal cancer, and overall better gastrointestinal health (Figure 1) (Tejada-Ortigoza et al., 2016). Figure 1 Effect of dietary fiber and probiotics on the intestinal microflora (Adopted from Lai et al., 2023) 2.3 Definition and physiological functions of probiotics Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. Commonly found in genera such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, probiotics are widely present in fermented dairy and non-dairy foods and beverages (Enujiugha and Badejo, 2017). Once established in the gut, these strains regulate the gut microbiota, providing various health benefits, including inhibition of gastrointestinal infections, enhanced lactose metabolism, reduced serum cholesterol levels, and alleviation of inflammatory bowel diseases (Chen, 2024). Additionally, probiotics stimulate the immune system, exhibit anti-mutagenic and anti-cancer properties, and improve symptoms of functional dyspepsia by generating beneficial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (Hossain et al., 2024).
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