Category: Prebiotics

Oligosaccharides are a type of carbohydrate naturally present in various plant foods and human milk, but they are also manufactured synthetically for use in packaged goods. A recent market report projected a significant increase in the global demand for prebiotics, which includes many oligosaccharides, demonstrating their growing prevalence in our food supply. This dual origin can cause confusion for consumers wondering about the true source of these beneficial compounds.

Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that xylooligosaccharide (XOS) supplementation significantly alters the gut microbiota in both healthy and prediabetic adults. This emerging prebiotic is a type of carbohydrate that offers significant health benefits by selectively nourishing beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced and healthy digestive system.

Over 90% of commercial xylooligosaccharide (XOS) production utilizes renewable lignocellulosic biomass, suggesting a strong connection to natural sources. Derived from the breakdown of plant matter, particularly xylan found in hemicellulose, xylooligosaccharide can be found in small amounts in various natural foods, although it is typically produced commercially through industrial processes for widespread use.

Originally derived from the cell walls of yeast for use in animal feed, MOS in a supplement is gaining attention for its potential benefits in human gut health. This natural prebiotic is now being incorporated into dietary supplements to support a balanced intestinal environment and a robust immune system.

Fresh chicory root is famously composed of up to 68% inulin by dry weight, a type of prebiotic fiber formed from chains of fructose units. However, this is not the same as the free, simple fructose sugar that is readily absorbed by the body, a distinction that is key to understanding chicory's nutritional impact.

Studies show that larch arabinogalactan, a soluble dietary fiber, is actively fermented by beneficial intestinal microflora. But is larch arabinogalactan a prebiotic, and how does it truly impact your digestive and immune systems? This article explores the scientific evidence behind this powerful supplement and its gut-nourishing properties.

While often confused with its natural precursor, lactose, lactulose is primarily a synthetic disaccharide. Unlike most sugars readily available in nature, the food source of lactulose is largely confined to heat-treated dairy products or commercially manufactured supplements.

According to the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine, adults should aim for around 25 to 38 grams of fiber daily to support overall health. Porridge, particularly when made from oats, is packed with soluble fiber that serves as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut. This makes porridge an excellent dietary choice for promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

Research consistently shows that resistant starch from sources like potatoes passes undigested through the small intestine, acting as a powerful prebiotic for beneficial microbes. This reality provides a definitive answer to the question: does potato starch feed bad bacteria, or is this a common misunderstanding?

Scientific research has shown that supplementing with galactooligosaccharides (GOS) can significantly increase beneficial gut bacteria like *Bifidobacterium*. Yes, galactooligosaccharides are widely used in supplements, particularly those targeting gut health and digestion.