Inulin
Benefits of Inulin
- Gut microbiome
- Bowel function*
- Form: Powder
- Food source: Chicory root, Jerusalem artichokes, onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus and bananas.
What is Inulin?
To understand why Inulin matters, it helps to know a little about the gut. Our gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, mostly bacteria, along with fungi and others. Some of these bacteria are beneficial. They help with the digestion of food by producing enzymes, make certain vitamins and produce compounds that are used elsewhere in the body. Our gut and our brain are connected via 'the gut-brain axis', which is why our gut is our 'second brain'.
These bacteria feed on compounds called 'prebiotics', and Inulin is one of the best known. Our bodies don't digest Inulin itself, but it is a quality fibre that acts as food for the bacteria in our gut, allowing them to multiply.
What does Inulin do?
Chicory inulin contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency.*
Inulin has been studied for its effects on bowel habits and digestive comfort, in combination with choline and silymarin. It also feeds bifidobacteria, a well-studied group of gut bacteria that make certain vitamins.
Gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids when they ferment fibres like Inulin. These are absorbed in the gut and used around the body. Researchers are increasingly interested in the link between the gut and the skin, known as the gut-skin axis. To stay active, gut bacteria need a regular supply of prebiotic fibres, such as Inulin.
*The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g of chicory inulin.
You may also enjoy reading 'What are prebiotics and probiotics?' and 'How gut health affects the skin'. Learn about the '6 signs of an unhealthy gut' and discover 'Latest gut health customer survey: IBS causes & signs revealed'.
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Vitamin C
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Zinc
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Iodine
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