Question

The action of bacterial enzymes on fiber in the large intestine results in the _____.

a. Delay of gastric emptying
b. Release of short-chain fatty acids
c. Release of small amounts of polysaccharides
d. Release of amylase
e. Release of acid secretions

Answer 1

The correct answer is b. Release of short-chain fatty acids.

The intestinal microflora is complex ecosystem which contains over 400 bacterial species.That microflora is capable of fermenting indigestible carbohydrates (dietary fiber) to short-chain fatty acids such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate.