Background: Short-term studies in adolescents have generally shown an enhancement of
calcium absorption by inulin-type fructans (prebiotics). Results have been inconsistent;
however, and no studies have been conducted to determine whether this effect persists with
long-term use. Objective: The objective was to assess the effects on calcium absorption and
bone mineral accretion after 8 wk and 1 y of supplementation with an inulin-type fructan.
Design: Pubertal adolescents were randomly assigned to receive 8 g/d of a mixed short and …