THE SYNERGISTIC POTENTIAL OF CHITOSAN AND WHEY POWDER IN PREVENTING INTESTINAL DISEASES

Abstract

Abstract. Objective: The increasing recognition of the link between intestinal health and overall wellness has prompted interest in natural supplements for digestive support. This review aims to synthesize existing scientific evidence on the individual and combined prophylactic potentials of chitosan and whey powder in maintaining intestinal health and preventing related diseases. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Keywords included "chitosan", "whey powder", "gut health", "intestinal barrier", "microbiota", and "prophylaxis". The analysis focused on the mechanisms of action and the synergistic effects of these two natural agents. Results: Scientific literature indicates that chitosan, a biopolymer from crustacean shells, exhibits multiple beneficial properties. It forms a gel in the digestive tract, regulating transit time and nutrient absorption. Its positive charge allows it to bind to negatively charged toxins and pathogens. Furthermore, chitosan strengthens the intestinal barrier by stimulating mucin production and acts as a selective prebiotic, promoting beneficial bacteria while inhibiting pathogens. Whey powder, rich in easily digestible proteins and lactose, serves as a potent prebiotic, fostering the growth of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. The combination of chitosan and whey powder demonstrates a synergistic effect, effectively reducing harmful bacteria, binding and eliminating toxins, and balancing the gut microbiome, thereby mitigating the risk of dysbiosis and inflammation. Conclusion: The synthesis of current evidence suggests that the combination of chitosan and whey powder presents a promising, multi-faceted natural strategy for the prevention of intestinal diseases. This partnership leverages chitosan's protective and binding capabilities with whey's prebiotic nourishment, creating an optimal environment for gut health. Further clinical trials are warranted to validate these effects and establish optimal dosages.