Prebiotics
Prebiotics are undigestible plant fibers that feed the beneficial microflora (probiotics) living in the large intestine, helping them to grow and thrive. The key prebiotics are fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharide, both short-chained carbohydrates known as oligosaccharides. A current trend is to add prebiotics to foods for added health benefits.
You’ve probably noticed inulin, a type of soluble fiber and a prebiotic, listed on food labels for yogurt, breads, pasta, cereals and many other foods, including petfood. Inulin cannot be digested by human digestive enzymes and reaches the large intestine intact, making it an excellent fiber source. In addition to its prebiotic effects, inulin’s soluble fibers help to bind cholesterol, excess fat and hormones (like estrogen) removing them from the body via the stool.
You’ve probably noticed inulin, a type of soluble fiber and a prebiotic, listed on food labels for yogurt, breads, pasta, cereals and many other foods, including petfood. Inulin cannot be digested by human digestive enzymes and reaches the large intestine intact, making it an excellent fiber source. In addition to its prebiotic effects, inulin’s soluble fibers help to bind cholesterol, excess fat and hormones (like estrogen) removing them from the body via the stool.
Inulin is usually extracted from chicory root but is also found in Jerusalem artichoke, jicama, onions, asparagus, raw oats, unrefined wheat and barley.
Both probiotics and prebiotics are important for good intestinal health. Whether they derive from natural foods, supplements or both, include them as a regular part of your diet
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