“Rapid changes in the microflora and/or the proliferation of intestinal pathogens can lead to gastrointestinal diseases. Therefore, a number of trials have been carried out to explore the efficacy of MOS in improving gut health in dogs.
To reduce the risk of digestive upsets it is critical to keep the concentrations of potential pathogens low. MOS has been shown to reduce faecal E. coli and C. perfringens and tended to have greater concentrations of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.[26][27][28][29]Older dogs tend to have reduced concentrations of bifidobacteria.[29] A significant increase in bifidobacteria concentration was noted with MOS supplementation to diets of senior dogs, thus counteracting the negative effect of age on colonic health.[29]
The mechanism of action for reducing the numbers of C. perfringens may differ from that previously explained for bacteria with type-1-fimbriae. Research in other species has demonstrated that MOS has an effect on intestinal morphology as well as both innate and acquired immune system components, which may help to explain the observed reductions in C. perfringens. Research shows an increase in serum lymphocytes and lower plasma neutrophils when adult dogs were supplemented with MOS and FOS. These findings indicate an improvement in immunity that, in turn, gives rise to increased protection against intestinal pathogens.[30]
Other areas of interest to dog owners are the effect of MOS on nutrient digestibility and stool quality; both for health and practical (poop-a-scoop) reasons.[31][32]“
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mannan_oligosaccharide-based_nutritional_supplements
Laboratory Results For MOS
