Inulin prebiotic ameliorates type 1 diabetes dictating regulatory T cell homing via CCR4 to pancreatic islets and butyrogenic gut microbiota in murine model.
We explored how inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber, impacts the immune response in the context of type 1 diabetes (T1D) using a specific mouse model. Our findings showed that mice treated with inulin alongside a chemical that induces diabetes, called streptozotocin, did not develop the disease. In fact, these mice had lower blood glucose levels, reduced inflammation in their pancreas, and more balanced insulin levels compared to those not receiving inulin.
The mice that received inulin also demonstrated an interesting change in their gut health, showcasing an increase in beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia muciniphila, as well as higher levels of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid crucial for gut health. This improved gut microbiota seemed to support regulatory T cells, which play an important role in immune regulation.
Specifically, we noted that inulin helped recruit these regulatory T cells into the pancreas, a site critical for managing the immune response in diabetes. This recruitment depended on a specific pathway involving something known as CCR4. When we looked at mice lacking this CCR4 receptor, the beneficial effects of inulin were significantly reduced, highlighting its importance.
Overall, these findings suggest that inulin could be a promising nutritional strategy for enhancing immune health and potentially protecting against autoimmune conditions like T1D.
Read More
9
Inulin mitigates autoimmune effects
Prebiotic inulin controls Th17 cells mediated central nervous system autoimmunity through modulating the gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids.
We set out to understand how inulin, a common prebiotic, influences autoimmune disorders, specifically in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS). Using a well-established mouse model called experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), we examined the effects of oral inulin on MS symptoms.
Our findings revealed that when mice were given inulin, there was a significant reduction in the severity of EAE. This was accompanied by less inflammation and less damage to the protective covering of nerves in the central nervous system. We also observed a decrease in specific immune cells known as Th17 cells, which are often linked to autoimmune diseases.
Moreover, the levels of certain inflammatory markers in the blood, like IL-17 and TNF-α, also dropped after inulin treatment. Notably, we found that inulin altered the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria and the production of butyric acid, which is thought to play a protective role. In follow-up experiments, the gut contents from inulin-treated mice showed promise in reducing EAE symptoms when transplanted into other mice, further supporting our findings about the positive impact of inulin on MS-related autoimmune responses.
However, when we introduced antibiotics to the mix, the benefits of inulin diminished, highlighting the important relationship between inulin, gut bacteria, and the overall effectiveness against EAE. Through this research, we suggest that inulin could represent a potential new strategy for managing symptoms in individuals with multiple sclerosis by harnessing its effects on gut health and immune balance.
Read More
9
Inulin aids type 1 diabetes management
Inulin Fermentable Fiber Ameliorates Type I Diabetes via IL22 and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Experimental Models.
We explored the impact of inulin, a fermentable fiber, on type 1 diabetes, particularly focusing on its potential to influence autoimmune responses. Using both streptozotocin-induced diabetes models and non-obese diabetic mice, we set out to observe whether diets enriched with inulin could offer protective effects against the development of diabetes.
Our findings revealed that inulin not only helped manage blood sugar levels but also preserved important fat storage in the body. Compared to standard grain-based diets and insoluble fibers like cellulose, those supplemented with inulin showed significant benefits. This included improved pancreatic function and insulin sensitivity, suggesting a robust mechanism behind its action.
Additionally, we noted that the positive results linked to inulin were connected to changes in gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in health. These effects were observable even after blocking fermentation, indicating that short-chain fatty acids produced from inulin are key players in combating diabetes. Intriguingly, our research also highlighted that interleukin 22—a protein involved in immune responses—was restored with inulin intake, which appeared necessary for its full benefits.
Overall, our study underscores the potential of inulin-rich diets as a promising strategy for preventing or treating type 1 diabetes, opening new pathways for dietary approaches in managing autoimmune disorders.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective for constipation
117 people found this helpful
I ordered this for my mother, age 76, multiple times. The benefits have been immense! At her age, constipation can be an issue, so finding a safe, regular remedy is essential. This fibre works wonders—she now has a daily bowel movement, and her gastrointestinal tract thanks the manufacturer for this remarkable and affordable product. One teaspoon daily is all she needs. The taste is slightly sweet, and we combine it with Paradise Herbs Zelenka for even better results. I will definitely order again.
Read More
9
Gut health restoration
114 people found this helpful
This is an excellent remedy following antibiotic use, beneficial for intestinal microflora. After contracting COVID-19, my doctor advised a course of probiotics and prebiotics, so I ordered inulin. It, combined with probiotics, effectively restores gut health, noticeable within two days. My stool improved significantly post-inulin, eliminating unpleasant odours and regularising my routine. I mix one teaspoon in water and take it before bed.
Read More
9
Sense of lightness
78 people found this helpful
This is not the first time I’ve ordered it for my husband. After taking inulin, he feels a sense of lightness in his stomach. His food digests significantly better now. He follows the instructions and takes it 30 minutes before meals along with Acidophilus. Previously, without trying Creon, it was challenging to cope with stomach heaviness and belching. I highly recommend this product. It genuinely helps.
Inulin prebiotic ameliorates type 1 diabetes dictating regulatory T cell homing via CCR4 to pancreatic islets and butyrogenic gut microbiota in murine model.
We explored how inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber, impacts the immune response in the context of type 1 diabetes (T1D) using a specific mouse model. Our findings showed that mice treated with inulin alongside a chemical that induces diabetes, called streptozotocin, did not develop the disease. In fact, these mice had lower blood glucose levels, reduced inflammation in their pancreas, and more balanced insulin levels compared to those not receiving inulin.
The mice that received inulin also demonstrated an interesting change in their gut health, showcasing an increase in beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Akkermansia muciniphila, as well as higher levels of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid crucial for gut health. This improved gut microbiota seemed to support regulatory T cells, which play an important role in immune regulation.
Specifically, we noted that inulin helped recruit these regulatory T cells into the pancreas, a site critical for managing the immune response in diabetes. This recruitment depended on a specific pathway involving something known as CCR4. When we looked at mice lacking this CCR4 receptor, the beneficial effects of inulin were significantly reduced, highlighting its importance.
Overall, these findings suggest that inulin could be a promising nutritional strategy for enhancing immune health and potentially protecting against autoimmune conditions like T1D.
Read More
9
Inulin mitigates autoimmune effects
Prebiotic inulin controls Th17 cells mediated central nervous system autoimmunity through modulating the gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids.
We set out to understand how inulin, a common prebiotic, influences autoimmune disorders, specifically in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS). Using a well-established mouse model called experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), we examined the effects of oral inulin on MS symptoms.
Our findings revealed that when mice were given inulin, there was a significant reduction in the severity of EAE. This was accompanied by less inflammation and less damage to the protective covering of nerves in the central nervous system. We also observed a decrease in specific immune cells known as Th17 cells, which are often linked to autoimmune diseases.
Moreover, the levels of certain inflammatory markers in the blood, like IL-17 and TNF-α, also dropped after inulin treatment. Notably, we found that inulin altered the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria and the production of butyric acid, which is thought to play a protective role. In follow-up experiments, the gut contents from inulin-treated mice showed promise in reducing EAE symptoms when transplanted into other mice, further supporting our findings about the positive impact of inulin on MS-related autoimmune responses.
However, when we introduced antibiotics to the mix, the benefits of inulin diminished, highlighting the important relationship between inulin, gut bacteria, and the overall effectiveness against EAE. Through this research, we suggest that inulin could represent a potential new strategy for managing symptoms in individuals with multiple sclerosis by harnessing its effects on gut health and immune balance.
Read More
9
Inulin aids in Type 1 Diabetes prevention
A diet enriched in omega-3 PUFA and inulin prevents type 1 diabetes by restoring gut barrier integrity and immune homeostasis in NOD mice.
We explored how an anti-inflammatory diet, specifically one enriched with inulin (a type of soluble fiber) and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), can restore gut barrier integrity and prevent autoimmune conditions like Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in a specific mouse model known as NOD mice.
In this study, we found that this dietary approach effectively strengthened the gut barrier, leading to increased thickness of the mucus layer and elevated levels of protective mucins. It also reduced markers of intestinal inflammation and promoted a healthier balance of immune cells in the gut and other areas, such as the pancreas.
By enhancing the gut's protective functions and adjusting the composition of gut bacteria, our findings suggest that inulin can play a crucial role in maintaining immune balance and preventing autoimmune reactions. Overall, the results highlight the importance of dietary choices in managing autoimmune disorders, showing promise for inulin as a favorable intervention.
Read More
9
Inulin aids type 1 diabetes management
Inulin Fermentable Fiber Ameliorates Type I Diabetes via IL22 and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Experimental Models.
We explored the impact of inulin, a fermentable fiber, on type 1 diabetes, particularly focusing on its potential to influence autoimmune responses. Using both streptozotocin-induced diabetes models and non-obese diabetic mice, we set out to observe whether diets enriched with inulin could offer protective effects against the development of diabetes.
Our findings revealed that inulin not only helped manage blood sugar levels but also preserved important fat storage in the body. Compared to standard grain-based diets and insoluble fibers like cellulose, those supplemented with inulin showed significant benefits. This included improved pancreatic function and insulin sensitivity, suggesting a robust mechanism behind its action.
Additionally, we noted that the positive results linked to inulin were connected to changes in gut microbiota, which play a crucial role in health. These effects were observable even after blocking fermentation, indicating that short-chain fatty acids produced from inulin are key players in combating diabetes. Intriguingly, our research also highlighted that interleukin 22—a protein involved in immune responses—was restored with inulin intake, which appeared necessary for its full benefits.
Overall, our study underscores the potential of inulin-rich diets as a promising strategy for preventing or treating type 1 diabetes, opening new pathways for dietary approaches in managing autoimmune disorders.
Read More
9
Inulin-type fructans and diabetes
Specific inulin-type fructan fibers protect against autoimmune diabetes by modulating gut immunity, barrier function, and microbiota homeostasis.
We explored the impact of inulin-type fructans (ITFs) on the progression of autoimmune diabetes in nonobese diabetic mice. Our analysis involved comparing two types of ITFs—long-chain and short-chain—while observing their effects on diabetes development alongside immune responses, gut barrier function, and the composition of gut bacteria.
The results were quite impressive. We found that the long-chain ITF significantly reduced the incidence of type 1 diabetes, while the short-chain variant showed no such effect. This protective benefit of long-chain ITF came from its ability to enhance regulatory T-cell responses, which are crucial in controlling immune reactions. We noticed increased levels of specific immune cells that help maintain a balanced immune environment in the pancreas, spleen, and colon.
Additionally, long-chain ITF improved gut barrier function and boosted the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids. It also altered the gut microbiota, promoting a healthier balance of bacteria that supports immune health. Overall, our findings highlight that specific inulin-type fructans can effectively delay the onset of autoimmune diabetes by positively influencing gut health and immune regulation.
I ordered this for my mother, age 76, multiple times. The benefits have been immense! At her age, constipation can be an issue, so finding a safe, regular remedy is essential. This fibre works wonders—she now has a daily bowel movement, and her gastrointestinal tract thanks the manufacturer for this remarkable and affordable product. One teaspoon daily is all she needs. The taste is slightly sweet, and we combine it with Paradise Herbs Zelenka for even better results. I will definitely order again.
Read More
9
Gut health restoration
114 people found this helpful
This is an excellent remedy following antibiotic use, beneficial for intestinal microflora. After contracting COVID-19, my doctor advised a course of probiotics and prebiotics, so I ordered inulin. It, combined with probiotics, effectively restores gut health, noticeable within two days. My stool improved significantly post-inulin, eliminating unpleasant odours and regularising my routine. I mix one teaspoon in water and take it before bed.
Read More
9
Sense of lightness
78 people found this helpful
This is not the first time I’ve ordered it for my husband. After taking inulin, he feels a sense of lightness in his stomach. His food digests significantly better now. He follows the instructions and takes it 30 minutes before meals along with Acidophilus. Previously, without trying Creon, it was challenging to cope with stomach heaviness and belching. I highly recommend this product. It genuinely helps.
Read More
9
Constipation alleviated
11 people found this helpful
I faced extreme constipation recently, possibly linked to my autoimmune disorder. Seeking relief, I found this inulin, taking a teaspoon twice daily. Miraculously, my stool softened within two days. After a month, I felt significantly more comfortable. I plan to continue using a smaller amount daily to maintain this positive change. The flatulence increased initially but has stabilised over time.
Read More
9
Bowel problems resolved
8 people found this helpful
We have been giving the child this product for over a year, and he really enjoys it. Most importantly, his bowel problems resolved within the first two weeks. I recommend it for children with leaky gut syndrome, administered once daily alongside Omega-3. It's crucial to store it in a dark, cool place, and not in the fridge. I have ordered several times and it typically arrives in about two weeks. I suggest ordering a small jar to avoid storing an opened jar for too long. I highly recommend it; it's not only good for our son, but we sometimes enjoy it too; it's very tasty and, most importantly, healthy.
An autoimmune disorder occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues, believing them to be foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. This reaction can lead to inflammation, tissue damage, and impaired function of the affected organs. There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes, each with its own specific symptoms and treatment options. The exact cause of these disorders is still unclear, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors is believed to play a role in their development.
Diagnosis of autoimmune disorders often involves a combination of physical examinations, assessment of symptoms, blood tests, and imaging studies to evaluate organ involvement. Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms and controlling the immune response using medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and biologics. In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications, such as stress management and a balanced diet, can be beneficial in managing symptoms. If you suspect you have an autoimmune condition, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and tailored treatment options.
Prebiotic fiber inulin is a naturally occurring carbohydrate found in a variety of plants, particularly in roots and tubers such as chicory, garlic, leeks, and onions. As a soluble fiber, it is not digested in the small intestine but rather fermented by beneficial gut bacteria in the large intestine. This fermentation process helps promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, which can support gut health, improve digestion, and enhance the absorption of certain nutrients. Increasing dietary intake of prebiotic fibers like inulin can contribute to a healthier microbiome.
In addition to its benefits for gut health, inulin can also help to enhance feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, making it a popular ingredient in weight management products. It is often added to food and beverage items as a texturizer or sweetener because it offers a mildly sweet flavor without contributing significant calories. Given its numerous health benefits, inulin is frequently emphasized in discussions about dietary fiber and overall nutrition, making it a valuable component of a balanced diet.
Based on user reviews, individuals taking this inulin supplement for autoimmune-related digestive issues report varying timelines for visible results. Many users mention experiencing noticeable improvements within a few days to two weeks of starting the supplement. For instance, one user highlighted that her stool softened significantly within just two days after increasing her intake to twice daily due to extreme constipation linked to her autoimmune disorder Read Review. Another review noted substantial gut health restoration two days post-inulin use Read Review.
However, some users suggest that while initial benefits can be felt relatively quickly, achieving more substantial changes in gut health may take a month or longer of consistent use. One reviewer indicated that after a month, they felt significantly more comfortable and planned to continue with a smaller daily amount to maintain their improved condition Read Review. Therefore, while you may notice some results in a few days, for lasting benefits and optimal gut health, regular and prolonged use is advisable.
Numerous studies suggest that inulin, a prebiotic fiber, may hold potential in managing autoimmune disorders though outcomes can differ based on specific conditions and contexts. For instance, research has demonstrated that inulin can significantly reduce the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for multiple sclerosis, by lessening inflammation and supporting gut health through alterations in microbiota [1]. Similarly, a study focusing on collagen-induced arthritis observed improved symptoms linked to inulin's ability to balance immune responses, as well as beneficial alterations in gut bacteria, showcasing its dietary impact on autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis [2].
In specific cases, inulin's mechanisms appear to promote regulatory T-cell responses and improve gut barrier integrity, which is crucial in autoimmune conditions such as Type 1 diabetes [7][11]. Furthermore, evidence indicates that inulin can enhance metabolic markers in children with type 1 diabetes [10] and might help alleviate complications from systemic lupus erythematosus, despite not affecting overall disease activity [6]. Overall, while research findings are promising regarding inulin's role in managing certain autoimmune conditions, further studies focused on larger populations and various autoimmune diseases are necessary to establish clear guidelines on its use.
Users report a wide range of improvements in digestive symptoms after beginning supplementation with inulin. Many have highlighted significant enhancements in bowel regularity, with some stating that their constipation issues were resolved within a few days or weeks of consistent use. For example, one reviewer noted that her 76-year-old mother experienced daily bowel movements after just one teaspoon a day, a remarkable turnaround for someone struggling with constipation due to age Read Review. Additionally, another user mentioned that their child's bowel problems improved within two weeks of taking inulin, emphasizing its efficacy for both adults and children with digestive issues Read Review.
Beyond relieving constipation, users have also reported general digestive comfort and improved gut health. One reviewer specifically mentioned feeling a sense of lightness in the stomach and better food digestion after including inulin in her routine Read Review. There's a consensus that while initial benefits can be rapid, sustained use over a month or longer may lead to more profound, long-lasting improvements in digestive health. However, it's important to note that individual results can vary greatly, and some users experienced increased flatulence initially, which stabilized over time Read Review.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report positive experiences when combining this inulin supplement with other products, particularly probiotics. Users have noted that this combination significantly enhances gut health and alleviates gastrointestinal issues often associated with autoimmune disorders. For example, one reviewer indicated that mixing inulin with probiotics following antibiotic use resulted in noticeable gut restoration within two days, significantly improving stool consistency and regularity Read Review. Another user mentioned taking inulin alongside Acidophilus, which contributed to better digestion and a feeling of lightness Read Review.
Additionally, several users highlighted the efficacy of pairing inulin with omega-3 supplements and other prebiotic formulations for greater digestive improvements, particularly in children and those dealing with leaky gut syndrome Read Review. One user emphasized that combining inulin with psyllium in warm water created a robust morning routine that greatly enhanced intestinal function and regularity Read Review. Overall, users frequently advocate for the synergistic benefits of using inulin in conjunction with other supplements to optimize digestive health, especially for individuals managing autoimmune disorders.
Based on user reviews, the recommended dosage for Prebiotic Fiber Inulin varies, but many users report that one teaspoon daily is effective for their needs, especially for those dealing with issues related to autoimmune disorders and gastrointestinal health. For instance, one user mentioned their 76-year-old mother took one teaspoon daily and saw improvements in bowel regularity and gastrointestinal comfort Read Review. Another individual dealing with constipation attributed relief from their symptoms to a similar dosage, taken twice daily, which resulted in significantly softer stools within days Read Review.
However, there are testimonials suggesting that some users have found success with escalating dosages. For example, one individual started with one teaspoon and eventually increased their intake to three teaspoons for better results Read Review. The effectiveness of inulin seems to improve when combined with other supplements, such as probiotics, as reported by users noting more significant digestive improvements when taken together Read Review. Overall, while one teaspoon appears to be a common starting point, individual experiences suggest that dosage may need to be tailored according to specific health needs and personal responses.
9
Constipation alleviated
11 people found this helpful
I faced extreme constipation recently, possibly linked to my autoimmune disorder. Seeking relief, I found this inulin, taking a teaspoon twice daily. Miraculously, my stool softened within two days. After a month, I felt significantly more comfortable. I plan to continue using a smaller amount daily to maintain this positive change. The flatulence increased initially but has stabilised over time.
9
Gut health restoration
114 people found this helpful
This is an excellent remedy following antibiotic use, beneficial for intestinal microflora. After contracting COVID-19, my doctor advised a course of probiotics and prebiotics, so I ordered inulin. It, combined with probiotics, effectively restores gut health, noticeable within two days. My stool improved significantly post-inulin, eliminating unpleasant odours and regularising my routine. I mix one teaspoon in water and take it before bed.
9
Effective for constipation
117 people found this helpful
I ordered this for my mother, age 76, multiple times. The benefits have been immense! At her age, constipation can be an issue, so finding a safe, regular remedy is essential. This fibre works wonders—she now has a daily bowel movement, and her gastrointestinal tract thanks the manufacturer for this remarkable and affordable product. One teaspoon daily is all she needs. The taste is slightly sweet, and we combine it with Paradise Herbs Zelenka for even better results. I will definitely order again.
9
Bowel problems resolved
8 people found this helpful
We have been giving the child this product for over a year, and he really enjoys it. Most importantly, his bowel problems resolved within the first two weeks. I recommend it for children with leaky gut syndrome, administered once daily alongside Omega-3. It's crucial to store it in a dark, cool place, and not in the fridge. I have ordered several times and it typically arrives in about two weeks. I suggest ordering a small jar to avoid storing an opened jar for too long. I highly recommend it; it's not only good for our son, but we sometimes enjoy it too; it's very tasty and, most importantly, healthy.
9
Sense of lightness
78 people found this helpful
This is not the first time I’ve ordered it for my husband. After taking inulin, he feels a sense of lightness in his stomach. His food digests significantly better now. He follows the instructions and takes it 30 minutes before meals along with Acidophilus. Previously, without trying Creon, it was challenging to cope with stomach heaviness and belching. I highly recommend this product. It genuinely helps.
8
Regular bowel movements
15 people found this helpful
Inulin is a superb prebiotic of excellent quality with a pleasant taste and aroma. It enhances digestive function and regulates intestinal microflora, making stools regular. I take it first thing in the morning: one teaspoon of inulin with a teaspoon of psyllium in warm water for three months. I highly recommend it.
9
Leaky gut recovery
3 people found this helpful
I deal with leaky gut due to high stress and autoimmune issues. I use this daily—one teaspoon in my morning coffee. It's mildly sweet, and I gradually increased to three teaspoons a day. Combined with another product from IHerb, they've significantly improved my leaky gut issues. Essential for anyone on a weight loss journey since it's tough to lose weight with leaky gut.
9
Inulin mitigates autoimmune effects
Prebiotic inulin controls Th17 cells mediated central nervous system autoimmunity through modulating the gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids.
We set out to understand how inulin, a common prebiotic, influences autoimmune disorders, specifically in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS). Using a well-established mouse model called experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), we examined the effects of oral inulin on MS symptoms.
Our findings revealed that when mice were given inulin, there was a significant reduction in the severity of EAE. This was accompanied by less inflammation and less damage to the protective covering of nerves in the central nervous system. We also observed a decrease in specific immune cells known as Th17 cells, which are often linked to autoimmune diseases.
Moreover, the levels of certain inflammatory markers in the blood, like IL-17 and TNF-α, also dropped after inulin treatment. Notably, we found that inulin altered the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria and the production of butyric acid, which is thought to play a protective role. In follow-up experiments, the gut contents from inulin-treated mice showed promise in reducing EAE symptoms when transplanted into other mice, further supporting our findings about the positive impact of inulin on MS-related autoimmune responses.
However, when we introduced antibiotics to the mix, the benefits of inulin diminished, highlighting the important relationship between inulin, gut bacteria, and the overall effectiveness against EAE. Through this research, we suggest that inulin could represent a potential new strategy for managing symptoms in individuals with multiple sclerosis by harnessing its effects on gut health and immune balance.
8
Dietary fiber aids autoimmune health
Dietary pectin and inulin: A promising adjuvant supplement for collagen-induced arthritis through gut microbiome restoration and CD4 T cell reconstitution.
We examined how a high-fiber diet, particularly one rich in inulin and pectin, affects individuals with autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. The study focused on collagen-induced arthritis, a common model for RA, and evaluated whether this dietary intervention could help alleviate symptoms.
Through our observations, we found that the high-fiber diet notably eased arthritis symptoms in mice. This positive effect was linked to a balance between two types of immune cells known as Th17 and Treg, which are crucial in regulating autoimmune responses. As we explored further, it became clear that changes in gut microbiota and increased butyrate levels in feces were key factors behind this improvement.
We also discovered that simply adding butyrate to the drinking water produced similar beneficial effects, reaffirming the diet's impact. Butyrate appeared to change the metabolic behavior of CD4 T cells in a way that supports a healthier immune response. Overall, our findings suggest that dietary strategies focused on fiber, and specifically inulin, can play an important role in managing autoimmune disorders by restoring proper gut health and immune function.
9
Inulin aids in Type 1 Diabetes prevention
A diet enriched in omega-3 PUFA and inulin prevents type 1 diabetes by restoring gut barrier integrity and immune homeostasis in NOD mice.
We explored how an anti-inflammatory diet, specifically one enriched with inulin (a type of soluble fiber) and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), can restore gut barrier integrity and prevent autoimmune conditions like Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) in a specific mouse model known as NOD mice.
In this study, we found that this dietary approach effectively strengthened the gut barrier, leading to increased thickness of the mucus layer and elevated levels of protective mucins. It also reduced markers of intestinal inflammation and promoted a healthier balance of immune cells in the gut and other areas, such as the pancreas.
By enhancing the gut's protective functions and adjusting the composition of gut bacteria, our findings suggest that inulin can play a crucial role in maintaining immune balance and preventing autoimmune reactions. Overall, the results highlight the importance of dietary choices in managing autoimmune disorders, showing promise for inulin as a favorable intervention.
9
Inulin-type fructans and diabetes
Specific inulin-type fructan fibers protect against autoimmune diabetes by modulating gut immunity, barrier function, and microbiota homeostasis.
We explored the impact of inulin-type fructans (ITFs) on the progression of autoimmune diabetes in nonobese diabetic mice. Our analysis involved comparing two types of ITFs—long-chain and short-chain—while observing their effects on diabetes development alongside immune responses, gut barrier function, and the composition of gut bacteria.
The results were quite impressive. We found that the long-chain ITF significantly reduced the incidence of type 1 diabetes, while the short-chain variant showed no such effect. This protective benefit of long-chain ITF came from its ability to enhance regulatory T-cell responses, which are crucial in controlling immune reactions. We noticed increased levels of specific immune cells that help maintain a balanced immune environment in the pancreas, spleen, and colon.
Additionally, long-chain ITF improved gut barrier function and boosted the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids. It also altered the gut microbiota, promoting a healthier balance of bacteria that supports immune health. Overall, our findings highlight that specific inulin-type fructans can effectively delay the onset of autoimmune diabetes by positively influencing gut health and immune regulation.
7
Inulin shows potential for T1D
Effect of Prebiotic on Microbiota, Intestinal Permeability, and Glycemic Control in Children With Type 1 Diabetes.
We conducted a study to explore the effects of prebiotic inulin, specifically oligofructose-enriched inulin, on children battling type 1 diabetes (T1D). This randomized, placebo-controlled trial involved participants aged 8 to 17 over a span of 12 weeks. We aimed to assess how inulin could influence glycemic control, gut microbiota, and intestinal permeability.
During our research, we found that while the overall results showed promising potential, there were no significant differences in the frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia between the groups. However, we did observe that children receiving inulin exhibited a notable increase in their C-peptide levels after three months, which indicates an improvement in their insulin production.
Additionally, the inulin group showed a modest enhancement in intestinal permeability and an increase in beneficial gut bacteria. Although these improvements were only partially sustained over time, they suggest that adding inulin to the treatment regimen of children with T1D may offer a new avenue for slightly better glycemic control. Nevertheless, larger-scale trials will be essential to draw more definitive conclusions about the benefits of inulin on autoimmune aspects in diabetes.
4
Inulin shows limited autoimmune benefits
Targeting the gut microbiota with dietary fibers: a novel approach to prevent the development cardiovascular complications linked to systemic lupus erythematosus in a preclinical study.
We explored whether dietary fiber, specifically inulin-type fructans (ITF), could help mitigate the vascular and renal issues faced by mice with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In our research, we treated female NZBWF1 (SLE) mice with inulin and another type of resistant starch, comparing their effects.
Surprisingly, while both dietary fibers showed promise in improving conditions like hypertension and kidney damage, we did not see any improvement in disease activity levels, such as spleen enlargement or antibody production. This indicated that inulin alone might not effectively lower the autoimmune response in this specific model.
Additionally, our study highlighted the important role of gut microbiota in these processes. In fact, the fiber treatments positively shifted the gut bacteria composition, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. However, neither inulin nor resistant starch altered the levels of disease markers like proteinuria or autoimmunity in the treated mice.
Overall, we noticed that inulin can prevent hypertension and improve vascular function, but its ability to influence overall disease activity remained limited in this model of SLE. This research brings valuable insights into how dietary fibers might help manage complications from autoimmune disorders, even if they don't fully address all aspects of the disease.
References
Li N, Han X, Ruan M, Huang F, Yang L, et al. Prebiotic inulin controls Th17 cells mediated central nervous system autoimmunity through modulating the gut microbiota and short chain fatty acids. Gut Microbes. 2024;16:2402547. 10.1080/19490976.2024.2402547
Lou Y, Wen X, Song S, Zeng Y, Huang L, et al. Dietary pectin and inulin: A promising adjuvant supplement for collagen-induced arthritis through gut microbiome restoration and CD4 T cell reconstitution. J Nutr Biochem. 2024;133:109699. 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109699
Hashmi HF, Xuan X, Chen K, Zhang P, Shahab M, et al. Molecular modeling and simulation approaches to characterize potential molecular targets for burdock inulin to instigate protection against autoimmune diseases. Sci Rep. 2024;14:11291. 10.1038/s41598-024-61387-7
Moleón J, González-Correa C, Miñano S, Robles-Vera I, de la Visitación N, et al. Protective effect of microbiota-derived short chain fatty acids on vascular dysfunction in mice with systemic lupus erythematosus induced by toll like receptor 7 activation. Pharmacol Res. 2023;198:106997. 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106997
Guimarães JB, Rodrigues VF, Pereira ÍS, Manso GMDC, Elias-Oliveira J, et al. Inulin prebiotic ameliorates type 1 diabetes dictating regulatory T cell homing via CCR4 to pancreatic islets and butyrogenic gut microbiota in murine model. J Leukoc Biol. 2024;115:483. 10.1093/jleuko/qiad132
Moleón J, González-Correa C, Robles-Vera I, Miñano S, de la Visitación N, et al. Targeting the gut microbiota with dietary fibers: a novel approach to prevent the development cardiovascular complications linked to systemic lupus erythematosus in a preclinical study. Gut Microbes. 2023;15:2247053. 10.1080/19490976.2023.2247053
Lo Conte M, Antonini Cencicchio M, Ulaszewska M, Nobili A, Cosorich I, et al. A diet enriched in omega-3 PUFA and inulin prevents type 1 diabetes by restoring gut barrier integrity and immune homeostasis in NOD mice. Front Immunol. 2022;13:1089987. 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1089987
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