Sep 6 2010 --- Scientists at the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom, have found that soluble fibers found in plantain, a type of large banana, could be used to treat patients with Crohn’s disease.

Crohn’s is a condition that causes chronic intestinal inflammation, leading to pain, bleeding, and diarrhea. Scientists have previously shown that people with Crohn’s disease have increased numbers of a ‘sticky’ type of E. coli and weakened ability to fight off invading intestinal bacteria. The team investigated whether dietary agents could influence E. coli entering the lining of the gut.

The sticky E. coli are capable of penetrating the gut wall via special cells, called M-cells that act as ‘gatekeepers’ to the lymphatic system. In patients with Crohn’s disease this leads to chronic inflammation in the gut. Scientists found that plantain soluble fibers prevented the uptake and transport of E. coli across M-cells. They compared these results with tests on polysorbate-80 a fat emulsifier used in processed food to bind ingredients together. The tests revealed that polysorbate had the opposite effect to plantain fibers, and encouraged the movement of bacteria through the cells.

“This research shows that different dietary components can have powerful effects on the movement of bacteria through the bowel. We have known for some time the general health benefits of eating plantain and broccoli, which are both high in vitamins and minerals, but until now we have not understood how they can boost the body’s natural defenses against infection common in Crohn’s patients. Our work suggests that it might be important for patients with this condition to eat healthily and limit their intake of processed foods,” said Barry Campbell, University of Liverpool’s Institute of Translational Medicine.