Inulin and FOS (fructo-oligosaccaride) are very closely related, both being fructose-polysaccharides. The difference between the two substances is their polymer chain length; inulin being a long chain and FOS a short chain polymer.
Inulin and FOS both convert to prebiotics in the colon where they provide a vital source of nourishment for protective bacteria (probiotics).
Clinical studies have shown that inulin and fruto-oligosaccaride are the most well-recognised forms of starch, which do not get digested or absorbed in the digestive process, but which meet all the beneficial requirements of a prebiotic.
It is possible that if you normally have a bad reaction to eating dietary fibre, or if you suffer with irritable bowel syndrome, you may find high doses of inulin a problem. Inulin is classed as a FODMAP (an acronym for Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols), a type of fibre which ferments in the colon and may produce gas and digestive problems.
It is also a member of the carbohydrate group known as fructans, which have been shown to promote better health and reduce the risk of disease. If you wish to tap into the many health benefits of adding inulin to your diet, whilst avoiding the inconvenience of flatulence, the secret is to begin with small amounts of inulin. The dose can be gradually increased until you are able to assess your tolerance.
A study by the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Minnesota found that oligo-fructose, (a short-chain fatty acid often used as a sweetening additive), causes faster fermentation in the gut than that of native inulin, which may lead to more flatulence and gastrointestinal symptoms. The study concluded that most healthy participants could tolerate up to 10 grams of native inulin and 5 grams of the ‘sweet’ inulin per day.
Inulin and oligofructose (sweet inulin) are prebiotics found in certain foods. These substances go through the gut undigested and are finally used by the colon’s good bacteria. It is one of the problems for celiac patients that bad bacteria can easily multiply and take over, and when this happens a possible leaky gut may allow toxins into the bloodstream. It is therefore essential to get sufficient prebiotics from food to make sure the friendly microflora thrive. The following gluten-free foods are high in these prebiotics:
It should be noted that soluble fibre obtained from wheat dextrin does contain gluten so is unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
MINULIN® is formulated as concentrated liquid, where gives a high-fiber content and versatile product. This product is derived from a source with >90% inulin content. Its lower water content reduces the risk of bacterial growth and provides a smooth texture to enhance the sensory experience of food and beverages. These key benefits unlock the full potential of a prebiotic fiber. Besides that, MINULIN®is packed with Easysnap technology. Easysnap packing is the ultimate solution for our fiber product, offering unparalleled convenience and ease of use with its innovative single-serve design that allows you to effortlessly snap open the pack and enjoy the benefits of fiber anytime, anywhere.
MINULIN® is considered to be a very low-risk supplement but there may be some side effects to anyone predisposed to certain allergies.
MINULIN® is derived from inulin. Inulin’s side effects may include asthma and/or skin rash. Inulin may cause bloating, gas and bowel cramps, loose stools and more frequent bowel movements, particularly if you already suffer from inflammatory bowel conditions such as IBS. These symptoms may be avoided by taking inulin in tiny doses to start, gradually building to a more helpful level when your digestive system becomes accustomed to the soluble fibre. If you wish to tap into the many health benefits of adding inulin to your diet, whilst avoiding the inconvenience of flatulence, the secret is to begin with small amounts of inulin. The dose can be gradually increased until you are able to assess your tolerance.