The significant benefits of Inulin
Inulin stands out because it is fully fermented in the large intestine by beneficial bacteria, such as bifidobacteria or lactobacilli. This stimulates a selective growth of these bacteria resulting in several positive health effects, qualifying inulin as a prebiotic.
SUMMARY
Science confirms that prebiotic chicory root fibers (inulin and oligofructose) nourish the gut microbiota, which has a positive effect not only on gut health, but also on immune function, hormone regulation, and even mood.
Naturally found is Inulin especially abundant in chicory root, which contains about 15-20%.
Inulin has been consumed since ancient times
Inulin has been consumed since ancient times. Early humans ate large amounts of inulin, highlighting its long-standing importance in our diet. Naturally found in various fruits and vegetables, such as garlic, onions, leeks, artichokes and bananas, inulin is especially abundant in chicory root, which contains about 15-20%. Chicory is a plant with blue flowers, known for its inulin-rich roots, used as a popular coffee substitute in New Orleans and for its slightly bitter leaves in salads, especially in Europe.
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Inulin—a soluble dietary fiber
Not all dietary fibers are equal. Inulin is a soluble dietary fiber classified as a fructan, a type of carbohydrate made up of fructose chains of varying lengths that end with a glucose molecule. Since human enzymes cannot digest inulin, it passes through the stomach and small intestine intact.
Inulin—ideal for commercial use
The high content of inulin in chicory root makes it ideal for commercial use, where inulin is added to processed foods to boost fiber levels and enhance nutrition.
Beneficial effects of inulin from chicory
Almost 3 decades of extensive scientific work, including numerous human intervention studies, have confirmed the beneficial effects of inulin from chicory. Emerging research also shows the impact prebiotics have via the gut-brain axis. Our gut and brain are deeply connected, influencing everything from digestion to mood. Science confirms that prebiotic chicory root fiber (inulin and oligofructose) nourish the gut microbiota, leading to the production of beneficial compounds, such as short-chain fatty acids that impact not only gut health but also immune function, hormone regulation and even mood.
By supporting this vital connection, inulin helps enhance overall well-being far beyond the digestive system.
- Gut health
- Immune function
- Hormone regulation
- Mood
In addition to its prebiotic properties, inulin is valued for its ability to improve texture and mouthfeel, often serving as a fat substitute in food products. The chain length of inulin varies, making it more versatile for different food applications.
Thanks to its unique properties, inulin supports various aspects of health, from digestion to weight management, immune function and more. Discover inulin’s proven health benefits.
A word on terminology
Inulin is also referred to as chicory root fiber or long-chain inulin. The shorter-chain version, known as Oligofructose or fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), is described in more detail here.
Other types of prebiotic fibers
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.
Galacto-oligosaccharide
Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) is a prebiotic fiber produced from lactose. It is commonly used in infant formula, dairy products and supplements to support health.
Please feel free to contact us for further information about inulin.
References
Gibson GR, Hutkins R, Sanders ME et al. (2017) Expert consensus document: The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of prebiotics. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 14(8): 491–502. https://www.nature.com/articles/nrgastro.2017.75.pdf
Nagy DU, Sándor-Bajusz KA, Bódy B, Decsi T, van Harsselaar J, Theis S, Lohner S (2022) Effect of chicory-derived inulin-type fructans on abundance of Bifidobacterium and on bowel function: a systematic review with meta-analyses. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr:1–18. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10408398.2022.2098246?needAccess=true
van Loo J, Coussement P, Leenheer L de et al. (1995) On the presence of inulin and oligofructose as natural ingredients in the western diet. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 35(6): 525–552. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8777017