Effects of Kefiran-Feeding on Fecal Cholesterol Excretion, Hepatic Injury and Intestinal Histamine Concentration in Rats

Abstract

The natural polysaccharide, kefiran (galactoglucan), was studied for the mechanism of its serum cholesterol lowering effect in 2 rat models one, loaded with cholesterol and another given erotic acid. Kefiran accelerated sterol excretion and protected hepatic injuries (GOT, GPT) in both models. In addition, histamine excretion decreased in the cecum content and feces, suggesting that kefiran may have various preventative functions.