Additional research has shown that arginine suppresses the growth of some strains of unfavorable bacteria and inhibits bacterial toxin release, a common problem in those suffering from chronic colitis. Other studies, however, contraindicate the use of arginine for some models of colitis. Arginine promotes nitric oxide synthesis, and several studies have found excess nitric oxide production to be detrimental to colitis patients. Most people benefit from the healthy effects of arginine-induced nitric oxide synthesis, but some colitis patients may not. Soluble Fiber and Colonic Micro Flora Fiber is an important physiologic component of the diet.
Dietary fiber contains soluble and insoluble substrates.
Soluble fiber components are fermented by colonic micro flora, with the resultant production of short-chain fatty acids and gas. The clinical importance of dietary fiber and its metabolic products on gastrointestinal and nongastrointestinal functions have yet to be fully realized. During the past decade it has become evident that colonic mucosal metabolism is more complex than previously suspected. Luminal short-chain fatty acids are recognized as an essential fuel source for colonocytes, particularly in the distal colon. This can be confirmed by observations in experimental models of enterocolitis demonstrating enhancement of gut growth and function in response to intestinal nutrients such as glutamine for the small intestine and short-chain fatty acids for the colon.