inulin

Inulin is an add on sweetener to any of our products, below you will find fascinating information and a myriad of benefits about this ingredient.

Inulin is a soluble fibre, found in many plants. As a prebiotic, inulin promotes healthy bacteria in the gut. It’s very beneficial for the digestive system and its anti-inflammatory powers can aid conditions such as IBD and Crohn’s. Inulin can be used to aid weight loss, blood sugar control and improve bone health.

Inulin is a soluble fibre that is found in many different types of plants including chicory, agave and garlic. These plants store inulin as an energy reserve and for keeping the cold at bay. Inulin is made up of a chain of fructose molecules, known as a fructan. Fructans can’t be broken down by the digestive system, so they are used as food for the healthy bacteria in the gut. This makes inulin a prebiotic.

Inulin plays a vital role in maintaining the balance between good and bad bacteria in the digestive system. Studies have shown that increasing inulin intake can improve immunity and bowel health. This makes it an interesting natural remedy for conditions like constipation.

Inulin ferments into butyrate, a fatty acid that nourishes healthy gut bacteria and this is thought to reduce the chances of colon cancer developing. Its anti-inflammatory properties also make it effective for treating conditions such as IBD and Crohn’s disease.

There is a growing body of research that suggests that inulin can aid weight loss by promoting a feeling of ‘fullness’, thereby quashing appetite. It also helps to control blood sugar levels, which makes it especially beneficial for conditions such as diabetes and people who are pre-diabetic. One study observed that inulin can significantly reduce fat in the liver, which in turn decreases insulin resistance.

Inulin has the power to improve the body’s absorption of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which both contribute to good bone health.

Inulin is safe for most people to use but it should be avoided if you have a FODMAP intolerance.

Key benefits

Key benefits of inulin include:

Blood Sugar Management: Inulin can play a role in managing blood sugar levels. It has been shown to slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, leading to a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. This can help regulate blood sugar levels and potentially benefit individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance.

Calcium Absorption: Inulin can enhance the absorption of calcium in the intestines. This can be particularly beneficial for bone health and can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Digestive Health: Inulin acts as a prebiotic fibre, meaning it serves as a food source for beneficial bacteria in the gut. By promoting the growth of these probiotics, inulin can help support a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Gut-Brain Axis: The gut and brain communicate through a bidirectional pathway known as the gut-brain axis. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in this communication by producing neurotransmitters and metabolites that can influence brain function and mood. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, inulin can positively influence the gut-brain axis.

Stress Response: The gut microbiome can influence the body's response to stress by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the release of stress hormones like cortisol. A healthy gut microbiome can help regulate the stress response. Inulin's ability to support a diverse and balanced gut microbiota can contribute to a more resilient stress response.

Weight Management: Inulin's effect on satiety and its impact on gut bacteria can contribute to weight management. It can help increase feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. A balanced gut microbiota has been associated with healthy body weight regulation.

You should avoid inulin if you take any of the below medication

Avoid combining inulin with the following medications:

Antidiabetic Drugs: Inulin may lower blood sugar levels. Combining it with antidiabetic medications such as insulin or oral hypoglycaemic agents could enhance this effect, leading to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Monitor blood sugar levels closely and consult a healthcare provider before combining inulin with antidiabetic drugs.

Immunosuppressants: Inulin's prebiotic properties may stimulate the immune system. Combining it with immunosuppressant medications could potentially reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppression, leading to increased immune activity or rejection of transplanted organs. Consult a healthcare provider before combining inulin with immunosuppressants.

Medications Affected by Absorption: Inulin may affect the absorption of certain medications. If you are taking medications that rely on consistent absorption for their effectiveness, such as antibiotics or thyroid medications, consult a healthcare provider before combining them with inulin.

Gastrointestinal Medications: Inulin's fermentable nature may exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms in some individuals. If you are taking medications for gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), consult a healthcare provider before combining them with inulin.

You should avoid inulin if you have any of the below allergen or medical condition

Individuals with the following allergens or medical conditions should use caution or avoid inulin:

Fructose Intolerance or Malabsorption: Inulin is a type of dietary fibre composed of fructose molecules. Individuals with fructose intolerance or malabsorption may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, gas, or diarrhoea when consuming inulin-containing foods or supplements. Avoid inulin or use it cautiously if you have fructose intolerance or malabsorption.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Inulin is a fermentable fibre that can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with IBS, such as bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhoea. While some individuals with IBS may tolerate small amounts of inulin, others may experience worsening symptoms. Monitor your symptoms and consult a healthcare provider before using inulin if you have IBS.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Inulin's fermentable nature may aggravate symptoms in individuals with IBD, including Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Some people with IBD may experience increased gas, bloating, or abdominal pain when consuming inulin. Use inulin cautiously and consult a healthcare provider if you have IBD.

Food Allergies or Sensitivities: While rare, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to inulin or its sources, such as chicory root. Allergic reactions can manifest as skin rash, itching, swelling, or respiratory symptoms such as difficulty breathing. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if you experience allergic reactions to inulin.