Inulin

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Inulin is a natural soluble fiber, made from chicory roots.  Inulin has been shown to increase numbers of beneficial bacteria within the digestive system.  Healthy levels of these important bacteria can result in improved intestinal functions, relief of constipation, and digestive comfort.  In addition, Inulin has a positive effect on calcium absorption in adolescents and postmenopausal women, thereby potentially plating a role in bone health.
 
Inulin can add nutritional value to foods while improving taste and texture.

Inulin is an all-natural prebiotic to support optimal colon functioning and mineral absorption. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that are the energy source for the beneficial bacteria in the colon. By feeding the beneficial bacteria, we keep our bodies in balance. Inulin from the chicory root is used in our product. Inulin is an easy to disperse fine granulated white powder, giving mouth feel to a wide range of food applications. Belonging to the fructan group, inulin is a mixture of non-digestible oligo-and polysaccharides built up of fructose units with ß2-1 bonds, mostly ending with a glucose unit.

Emerging studies suggest that inulin may boost calcium absorption, which is important because calcium helps build and maintain strong bones. Inulin may also help promote a healthy digestive system by stimulating the growth of beneficial Bifidobacteria in the lower intestine. Because it mimics the texture of fat, inulin gives an added richness to low-fat foods with fewer calories. Aside from adding body, this ingredient has a satiety effect - helping contribute to a feeling of fullness. Furthermore, with its mildly sweet taste, but without a surge in blood sugar levels, inulin can be used as a sugar replacement in low calorie or diabetic-suitable foods.

Inulin is:

• An excellent source of soluble fiber
• Helps ease symptoms associated with antibiotic use, such as diarrhea
• Does not affect blood sugar levels

What is Inulin?Inulin is a natural soluble fiber, made from chicory roots. As an ingredient, Inulin can add nutritional value to foods while improving taste and texture.

What are the health benefits of Inulin? Inulin is a prebiotic that is fermented in the lower intestine by the beneficial bacteria, bifidobacteria. Because Inulin is a lower calorie carbohydrate it is beneficial in foods aiding in weight management. Following the consumption of Inulin blood sugar levels are not elevated making it a quality sugar substitute in foods for diabetics. Also, Inulin is a soluble fiber which may help maintain regularity. Additionally Inulin has a positive effect on calcium absorption in adolescents and postmenopausal women, thereby potentially playing a role in bone health.

What is a prebiotic? A prebiotic selectively stimulates growth of healthy bacteria in the colon such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which provide benefits to the body's digestive system. Inulin is fermented by these intestinal bacteria, and short chain fatty acids are produced. This can then cause a lowering of the pH in the large intestine, and result in increased calcium absorption. This lower pH also slows the growth of certain bacteria that can weaken the immune system.

What are the caloric values of Inulin? Inulin products have caloric values ranging from 1.1 to 1.3 calories per gram. Carbohydrates in general have a value of 4 calories per gram.

How much Inulin should be consumed each day? Prebiotic benefits can be seen from Inulin at about 5 grams per day. For increased calcium absorption a person should consume at least 8 grams per day. Dietary fiber in general should be consumed at 25-35 grams per day.

Is Inulin heat stable? Inulin is extremely heat stable.