Inulin Powder

What is Inulin?

Inulin powder is a natural source of dietary soluble fibre. It is derived from a plant base source such as chicory root, jerusalem artichoke, or asparagus. Our powder is specifically from jerusalem artichoke.

How Inulin Aid Digestive Health?

Inulin powder is a type of fibre that can boost gut health and promote regularity. It acts as prebiotic by being a non-digestible food ingredient that feeds the good bacteria in the gut.

The human gut contains trillions of beneficial bacteria (probiotics). Bifidobacteria are good bacteria that occupy the lower gut (colon). They ferment complex carbohydrates that cannot be digested in the upper gut and releases short-chain fatty acids (such as butyrate) that are essential for human health.

Inulin is basically food for bifidobacteria and stimulates their growth and activity. Good bacteria have a number of important functions in our bodies. They produce acetic acid and lactic acid, which lowers the acidity of the colon and prevents the growth of bad bacteria in the gut. Stimulate the immune system, aid the absorption of certain minerals, increase the production of B vitamins, such as folate, B12, thiamine, and niacin.

Constipation

Inulin is a soluble fibre that can relieve constipation. Soluble fibre absorbs water in the gut, creating a gel-like texture and softening stool. This normalises bowel transit and eases constipation. A 2019 study showed that 10g of chicory root inulin per day improved both stool frequency and consistency in middle-aged people with mild, chronic constipation.

Inulin Chemistry

Inulin is made up of a string of fructose molecules (like beads on a string) with glucose on either end. However, these molecules are linked in the chain by bonds that are not digestible by the human gut. Therefore, they move slower in the bowel, absorb water, and swell up like a gel that helps in forming softer stools.

Suggested Dose

Adults: Take 1/4 tsp daily. Slowly build up to a maximum of 1 tsp twice daily
Children 2 years and above. Take 1/4 tsp daily.
Can be taken mixed with water or juice, or mixed with food.

Possible Side Effects

Inulin is a fibre fermented by gut bacteria, which produce gas as a by-product. This gas accumulates in the colon, and if consumed in excess it can cause significant discomfort. Common inulin side effects include:

• Gas
• Abdominal discomfort
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea or loose stools

Caution

Not to be used in children under 2 years of age without guidance from your Health Care Practitioner
If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.

Keep cool and dry
Keep all therapeutic substances out of the reach of children