The Nourishing Benefits of Inulin
Did you know that there is a soluble fiber that not only nourishes friendly bacteria, but also has a very low glycemic index? It's true! Inulin is a fructooligosaccharide (FOS) that serves as a prebiotic fiber, resistant to digestion. This means that it reaches the large intestine essentially intact and provides food for probiotic bacteria. These good bacteria then produce short-chain fatty acids that nourish the cells lining the colon. In other words, inulin helps to maintain intestinal health and function. But that's not all! Inulin also has a pleasant flavor that adds a mild sweetness to foods and drinks. And because it has such a low glycemic index, it will not negatively impact serum glucose levels. That's terrific news for those concerned about blood sugar levels. So, if you're looking for a way to boost your gut health and enjoy some delicious food at the same time, look no further than inulin!
How Inulin Affects Gut Health
As we now know, inulin reaches the large intestine essentially intact and provides food for probiotic bacteria. These good bacteria then produce short-chain fatty acids that nourish the cells lining the colon. In other words, inulin helps to maintain intestinal health and function. But how does this happen? Let's take a closer look.
When inulin reaches the large intestine, it passes through the stomach and small intestine without being digested. This is because inulin is a soluble prebiotic fiber—meaning it's resistant to digestion—and travels all the way to the large intestine essentially intact. Once in the large intestine, though, inulin is fermented by probiotic bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which include acetate, propionate, and butyrate. These SCFAs are then absorbed by the cells lining the colon and provide them with energy. Additionally, SCFAs stimulate mucus production, which helps protect the cells of the colon from damage caused by inflammation.
In other words, consuming inulin helps to keep your gut healthy by providing food forgood bacteria, which in turn produce SCFAs that nourish the cells lining your colon. So make sure to add some inulin to your diet today!
The Many Benefits of Inulin
In addition to promoting gut health, inulin also has several other benefits. For instance, as mentioned earlier, inulin has a pleasant flavor that can add a mild sweetness to foods and drinks without negatively impacting blood sugar levels.* What's more, research suggests that inulin may help promote weight loss.* This is likely due to two factors: firstly, because inulin is a soluble fiber, it helps slow down digestion and makes you feel fuller for longer.* Secondly, some studies have shown that consuming inulin can help increase energy expenditure.* So if you're looking to shed some extra pounds, consider adding inulin to your diet!
There are many reasons why you should include inulin as part of your healthy diet. Not only does it help promote gut health by providing food for good bacteria, but it also has a very low glycemic index and can help with weight loss.* What's not to love? So next time you're at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some inulin and give it a try! Your gut—and taste buds—will thank you!
Suggested Usage: Take 1 level teaspoon 1 to 3 times daily. Mix into your favorite beverage or food. Begin with 1 teaspoon a day and slowly increase dosage to limit GI discomfort.
Store in a cool, dry place after opening.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Level Teaspoon (approx. 2.8 g)
Servings Per Container: about 81
Description Amount per Serving % Daily Value
Calories 5
Total Carbohydrate 2.7 g 1%**
Dietary Fiber 2.5 g 9%**
Organic Inulin (FOS) (from Blue Agave) 2.8 g
†Daily Value not established.
**Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Other Ingredients: None.
Not manufactured with yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nut or sesame ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
Caution: For adults only. May cause mild transient GI discomfort. Consult physician if pregnant/nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.
Do not eat freshness packet enclosed.
Natural color variation may occur in this product.
This product is sold by weight not volume.
Packaged and quality tested in the USA.
Store in a cool, dry place after opening.
Family owned since 1968.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |