Galacto-oligosaccharide: Prebiotic fiber from lactose
Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) is a naturally occurring prebiotic fiber that supports beneficial gut bacteria. It is produced from lactose and used in a range of foods and formulas to help nourish the microbiome and support digestive well-being.
At a glance
- Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) is a soluble prebiotic fiber made of short chains of galactose.
- It resists digestion and reaches the large intestine intact.
- GOS is fermented by beneficial gut bacteria, supporting microbiota balance.
- It is mostly known for its use in infant formula.
What is galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS)?
Galacto-oligosaccharide (often abbreviated GOS) is a prebiotic fiber composed of short chains of galactose molecules, typically ending with a glucose unit. Like other prebiotic fibers such as inulin and oligofructose, GOS is not broken down by human enzymes in the stomach or small intestine and therefore reaches the large intestine intact.
This resistance to digestion enables GOS to act as a substrate for beneficial gut microbes, helping promote a balanced microbial composition in the colon.
Explore Further:
How GOS is produced?
While small amounts of GOS occur naturally in some plant foods, the forms used in most products are produced from lactose, the sugar found in milk. Through enzymatic processes, lactose is converted into GOS, creating short chains of galactose that retain prebiotic properties.
How GOS works in the gut
Once GOS reaches the large intestine, it is selectively fermented by beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria, promoting their growth and contributing to a variety of health benefits and overall well-being.
Where GOS is used
GOS is widely used in infant formulas, certain dairy products and dietary supplements where it supports digestive health and beneficial microbiota development.
In many formulations, GOS is combined with other prebiotic fibers such as oligofructose to mimic the effect of human milk oligosaccharides and support a balanced gut ecosystem across different stages of life.
Conclusion
Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) is a soluble prebiotic fiber that resists digestion and reaches the colon intact, where it supports the growth and activity of beneficial microbes. Widely used in infant formulas, dairy products and supplements, GOS contributes to a balanced gut microbiota and digestive well-being. As a recognized member of the prebiotic fiber family, it complements other fibers like inulin and oligofructose by helping nourish gut bacteria and support normal gut function.
Reference:
So D, Whelan K, Rossi M et al. (2018) Dietary fiber intervention on gut microbiota composition in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr 107(6): 965–983.
Other Prebiotic fibers
Inulin
Inulin is a soluble dietary fiber naturally found in various fruits and vegetables, particularly abundant in chicory root. It acts as a prebiotic, selectively nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and supporting overall health.
Oligofructose
Oligofructose (Fructo-oligosaccharide or FOS), a short-chain form of inulin, is a prebiotic fiber derived from chicory root. It’s commonly added to foods and supplements for its health benefits and sugar replacement.
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