Availability of minerals in rats and pigs fed non-purified diets containing inulin

The effect of inulin on Ca, P, Mg, Fe, and Zn utilization was studied in rats and in ileum-fistulated pigs. Apparent ileal and fecal absorption, as well as retention of Ca and P, were lower in animals receiving inulin, whereas fecal absorption of Mg was not changed despite its lower ileal absorption and retention. Absorption of Ca and P in the small intestine was higher than total gastrointestinal absorption, indicating that the colon plays an important role in the utilization of these minerals. Slightly negative retentions of Fe and Zn were observed in animals fed the control diet, as well as in animals fed the diet containing inulin.