Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 12 Researches
5.2
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 60 Reviews
7.4
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Level Teaspoon (approx. 4 g)
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Calories
10
Total Carbohydrate
4 g
1%**
Dietary Fiber
4 g
14%*
Organic Inulin (FOS) (from Blue Agave)
3.3 g
†
Top Medical Research Studies
5
We examined the effects of agave inulin on gastrointestinal tolerance, particularly focusing on bloating, in a structured study. This research utilized a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial, involving 29 healthy adults across three periods, each lasting 21 days with one-week breaks in between.
Participants consumed either 5.0 g or 7.5 g of agave inulin, or a placebo, while we surveyed them for gastrointestinal symptoms. Interestingly, we found that while both doses led to slight increases in bloating and other symptoms like flatulence, the overall intensity remained low on a scale of 0 to 12.
For example, bloating and flatulence were reported slightly more frequently with the inulin, but our scores indicated minimal discomfort. Additionally, we noted improvements in bowel movements, with softer stools and more frequent visits to the bathroom, especially at the higher dosage. Remarkably, diarrhea was not more common with inulin consumption compared to the placebo.
Overall, our findings suggest that while agave inulin can cause some bloating, it's not significant enough to deter its use. Instead, it seems to offer potential benefits in terms of digestive health without major gastrointestinal issues.
Participants consumed either 5.0 g or 7.5 g of agave inulin, or a placebo, while we surveyed them for gastrointestinal symptoms. Interestingly, we found that while both doses led to slight increases in bloating and other symptoms like flatulence, the overall intensity remained low on a scale of 0 to 12.
For example, bloating and flatulence were reported slightly more frequently with the inulin, but our scores indicated minimal discomfort. Additionally, we noted improvements in bowel movements, with softer stools and more frequent visits to the bathroom, especially at the higher dosage. Remarkably, diarrhea was not more common with inulin consumption compared to the placebo.
Overall, our findings suggest that while agave inulin can cause some bloating, it's not significant enough to deter its use. Instead, it seems to offer potential benefits in terms of digestive health without major gastrointestinal issues.
Read More
5
We engaged in a comprehensive study to compare the digestive tolerance of various inulin-type fructans over a period of two weeks. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 84 healthy volunteers participated, testing products like Fibrulose F97 and Fibruline Instant at different dosages.
We recorded various digestive symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and flatulence, using visual analogue scales. While we noted that the three types of inulin did lead to a mild increase in symptoms, particularly with Fibruline Instant at the highest dose of 20 grams per day, the overall changes were not severe.
Importantly, despite some variations, the different inulin treatments were generally well tolerated. The increase in bloating and other symptoms was significant for the highest dose of Fibruline Instant, but not enough to indicate a problematic response. Therefore, we can say that inulin-type fructans are well tolerated by most people, with only mild digestive discomfort reported.
We recorded various digestive symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and flatulence, using visual analogue scales. While we noted that the three types of inulin did lead to a mild increase in symptoms, particularly with Fibruline Instant at the highest dose of 20 grams per day, the overall changes were not severe.
Importantly, despite some variations, the different inulin treatments were generally well tolerated. The increase in bloating and other symptoms was significant for the highest dose of Fibruline Instant, but not enough to indicate a problematic response. Therefore, we can say that inulin-type fructans are well tolerated by most people, with only mild digestive discomfort reported.
Read More
5
We conducted a comprehensive study involving patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to better understand how inulin, a type of carbohydrate, affects bloating and related symptoms. Utilizing a carefully designed cross-over study, we observed both IBS patients and healthy individuals as they consumed drinks containing inulin on multiple occasions.
Our findings revealed that patients reported more frequent symptoms after inulin consumption compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the physiological responses, such as the levels of gas produced in the intestines, were similar between both groups. However, what stood out was that IBS patients seemed to have heightened sensitivity to abdominal distension.
This suggests that the discomfort associated with inulin isn't necessarily due to creating more gas but rather a unique sensitivity of the colon in those suffering from IBS. While we noted that inulin may lead to bloating, it seems that addressing this discomfort involves understanding the patient's sensitivity rather than merely focusing on gas production levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the intricate relationship between inulin and bloating in IBS patients, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to treatment.
Our findings revealed that patients reported more frequent symptoms after inulin consumption compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the physiological responses, such as the levels of gas produced in the intestines, were similar between both groups. However, what stood out was that IBS patients seemed to have heightened sensitivity to abdominal distension.
This suggests that the discomfort associated with inulin isn't necessarily due to creating more gas but rather a unique sensitivity of the colon in those suffering from IBS. While we noted that inulin may lead to bloating, it seems that addressing this discomfort involves understanding the patient's sensitivity rather than merely focusing on gas production levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the intricate relationship between inulin and bloating in IBS patients, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to treatment.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Great for digestion
35 people found this helpful
I have been taking inulin for six months. After starting this supplement, my stomach improved, and the longstanding bloating ceased. Additionally, my blood sugar levels have decreased. My sister, aged 90, also took inulin and experienced enhancements in her stomach function and overall well-being, reflected in increased energy levels.
Read More
9
Bloating reduced
24 people found this helpful
My daughter struggled with digestive issues after gastroenteritis, not gaining weight and experiencing constant bloating. We tried various probiotics and enzymes without success. I decided to introduce prebiotics and began giving her inulin, which reduced her bloating and improved her eating and weight gain. I'm incredibly grateful!
Read More
10
No bloating experienced
17 people found this helpful
Excellent inulin, which my family has taken for many years! It is essential for the small intestine's proper functioning. Once I began using it, I forgot what constipation, diarrhoea, or bloating felt like. It really improves my overall condition; hence, I highly recommend this inulin—1000%!
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 12 Researches
5.2
- All Researches
8
We conducted a study involving 49 patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) to evaluate the impact of a specially formulated drink containing inulin, menthol, and pyridoxine on digestive symptoms, particularly bloating.
Over two weeks, one group consumed this drink alongside a standard diet, while a control group only followed the diet. We monitored daily reports of symptoms, including bloating, using a simple scale. Our findings were striking: participants who consumed the drink experienced a significant reduction in bloating scores, moving from an average of 2.22 to 1.53 on our scale. This improvement was statistically significant, suggesting that inulin can positively influence bloating in patients with IBS-C.
However, we also noted that some patients experienced side effects, such as heartburn. While the functional drink showed promise in reducing bloating and enhancing overall quality of life, these adverse effects indicate a need for further refinement of the drink's composition.
Over two weeks, one group consumed this drink alongside a standard diet, while a control group only followed the diet. We monitored daily reports of symptoms, including bloating, using a simple scale. Our findings were striking: participants who consumed the drink experienced a significant reduction in bloating scores, moving from an average of 2.22 to 1.53 on our scale. This improvement was statistically significant, suggesting that inulin can positively influence bloating in patients with IBS-C.
However, we also noted that some patients experienced side effects, such as heartburn. While the functional drink showed promise in reducing bloating and enhancing overall quality of life, these adverse effects indicate a need for further refinement of the drink's composition.
Read More
7
We conducted a randomized study focusing on patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Our aim was to see how adding a specific food supplement that includes inulin, choline, and silymarin could help alleviate bloating and other IBS symptoms compared to a standard constipation diet alone.
After eight weeks of treatment, we observed a notable improvement in bloating severity. Specifically, the addition of the supplement led to a 34.8% reduction in bloating symptoms among participants who used it in conjunction with their diet. This indicates that inulin, as part of this combination, may have a positive effect on alleviating bloating.
However, while stool frequency and consistency did show some improvement, these results were not statistically significant when comparing the two groups. Therefore, while there are clear benefits to including inulin with other ingredients for bloating relief, we must recognize that inulin’s isolated effects are part of a larger picture.
After eight weeks of treatment, we observed a notable improvement in bloating severity. Specifically, the addition of the supplement led to a 34.8% reduction in bloating symptoms among participants who used it in conjunction with their diet. This indicates that inulin, as part of this combination, may have a positive effect on alleviating bloating.
However, while stool frequency and consistency did show some improvement, these results were not statistically significant when comparing the two groups. Therefore, while there are clear benefits to including inulin with other ingredients for bloating relief, we must recognize that inulin’s isolated effects are part of a larger picture.
Read More
7
We conducted a study to evaluate how a dry jelly concentrate containing inulin affects bloating in patients suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). In this controlled study, fifty patients followed either a standard diet or the same diet plus two servings of jelly daily for two weeks.
Our findings revealed that those who consumed the jelly saw a notable decrease in bloating, with the Likert scale points improving from an average of 2.03 to 1.55. This indicates that using inulin in the form of a jelly may help ease feelings of bloating among those with IBS-C.
While both groups noted some improvement in abdominal pain, the jelly group enjoyed more significant enhancements not only in bloating but also in stool frequency and overall quality of life. It’s encouraging to see that this functional food product can offer relief and improve daily living for IBS-C patients.
Throughout the study, no significant adverse events were reported, suggesting that the jelly concentrate is safe for consumption.
Our findings revealed that those who consumed the jelly saw a notable decrease in bloating, with the Likert scale points improving from an average of 2.03 to 1.55. This indicates that using inulin in the form of a jelly may help ease feelings of bloating among those with IBS-C.
While both groups noted some improvement in abdominal pain, the jelly group enjoyed more significant enhancements not only in bloating but also in stool frequency and overall quality of life. It’s encouraging to see that this functional food product can offer relief and improve daily living for IBS-C patients.
Throughout the study, no significant adverse events were reported, suggesting that the jelly concentrate is safe for consumption.
Read More
5
We conducted a comprehensive study involving patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to better understand how inulin, a type of carbohydrate, affects bloating and related symptoms. Utilizing a carefully designed cross-over study, we observed both IBS patients and healthy individuals as they consumed drinks containing inulin on multiple occasions.
Our findings revealed that patients reported more frequent symptoms after inulin consumption compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the physiological responses, such as the levels of gas produced in the intestines, were similar between both groups. However, what stood out was that IBS patients seemed to have heightened sensitivity to abdominal distension.
This suggests that the discomfort associated with inulin isn't necessarily due to creating more gas but rather a unique sensitivity of the colon in those suffering from IBS. While we noted that inulin may lead to bloating, it seems that addressing this discomfort involves understanding the patient's sensitivity rather than merely focusing on gas production levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the intricate relationship between inulin and bloating in IBS patients, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to treatment.
Our findings revealed that patients reported more frequent symptoms after inulin consumption compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the physiological responses, such as the levels of gas produced in the intestines, were similar between both groups. However, what stood out was that IBS patients seemed to have heightened sensitivity to abdominal distension.
This suggests that the discomfort associated with inulin isn't necessarily due to creating more gas but rather a unique sensitivity of the colon in those suffering from IBS. While we noted that inulin may lead to bloating, it seems that addressing this discomfort involves understanding the patient's sensitivity rather than merely focusing on gas production levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the intricate relationship between inulin and bloating in IBS patients, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to treatment.
Read More
5
We examined the effects of agave inulin on gastrointestinal tolerance, particularly focusing on bloating, in a structured study. This research utilized a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial, involving 29 healthy adults across three periods, each lasting 21 days with one-week breaks in between.
Participants consumed either 5.0 g or 7.5 g of agave inulin, or a placebo, while we surveyed them for gastrointestinal symptoms. Interestingly, we found that while both doses led to slight increases in bloating and other symptoms like flatulence, the overall intensity remained low on a scale of 0 to 12.
For example, bloating and flatulence were reported slightly more frequently with the inulin, but our scores indicated minimal discomfort. Additionally, we noted improvements in bowel movements, with softer stools and more frequent visits to the bathroom, especially at the higher dosage. Remarkably, diarrhea was not more common with inulin consumption compared to the placebo.
Overall, our findings suggest that while agave inulin can cause some bloating, it's not significant enough to deter its use. Instead, it seems to offer potential benefits in terms of digestive health without major gastrointestinal issues.
Participants consumed either 5.0 g or 7.5 g of agave inulin, or a placebo, while we surveyed them for gastrointestinal symptoms. Interestingly, we found that while both doses led to slight increases in bloating and other symptoms like flatulence, the overall intensity remained low on a scale of 0 to 12.
For example, bloating and flatulence were reported slightly more frequently with the inulin, but our scores indicated minimal discomfort. Additionally, we noted improvements in bowel movements, with softer stools and more frequent visits to the bathroom, especially at the higher dosage. Remarkably, diarrhea was not more common with inulin consumption compared to the placebo.
Overall, our findings suggest that while agave inulin can cause some bloating, it's not significant enough to deter its use. Instead, it seems to offer potential benefits in terms of digestive health without major gastrointestinal issues.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 60 Reviews
7.4
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Great for digestion
35 people found this helpful
I have been taking inulin for six months. After starting this supplement, my stomach improved, and the longstanding bloating ceased. Additionally, my blood sugar levels have decreased. My sister, aged 90, also took inulin and experienced enhancements in her stomach function and overall well-being, reflected in increased energy levels.
Read More
9
Bloating reduced
24 people found this helpful
My daughter struggled with digestive issues after gastroenteritis, not gaining weight and experiencing constant bloating. We tried various probiotics and enzymes without success. I decided to introduce prebiotics and began giving her inulin, which reduced her bloating and improved her eating and weight gain. I'm incredibly grateful!
Read More
10
No bloating experienced
17 people found this helpful
Excellent inulin, which my family has taken for many years! It is essential for the small intestine's proper functioning. Once I began using it, I forgot what constipation, diarrhoea, or bloating felt like. It really improves my overall condition; hence, I highly recommend this inulin—1000%!
Read More
9
Supports digestion
10 people found this helpful
Inulin has transformed my digestive health. Adding it to my diet has had numerous benefits for my GI tract, significantly improving digestion and reducing bloating. As a prebiotic, it nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, enhancing overall gut health and regular bowel movements. Furthermore, it has increased my satiety, aiding appetite management and maintaining a healthy weight. I appreciate that inulin is a natural ingredient that blends seamlessly into my diet. If you want to bolster your gastrointestinal health, I highly recommend trying inulin!
Read More
9
Bloating eliminated
8 people found this helpful
Wonderful! This magic powder, inulin, is essential for proper intestinal function. Once I got everything sorted, I felt lighter. The can is vast, and the flavour is pleasant. My husband, plagued by a sick pancreas and constant bloating, has forgotten what constipation feels like since he began taking inulin regularly. Even my son, who suffered from lazy intestines, found relief after three months. Now, my intestines work like clockwork, and I always keep inulin on hand. I highly recommend it!
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Reduced bloating
1 people found this helpful
Nice supplement. I take 1 teaspoon in the morning, adding it to warm water with lemon. The taste is pleasant and the package is quite large, lasting a long time. I’ve noticed much less intestinal disturbance, my stool has normalised, and I no longer experience bloating in the evenings. I felt the effects about a week after starting.
10
Significant improvement noted
1 people found this helpful
Adding Inulin to my diet clearly enhanced my digestive health. I noticed a reduction in bloating after meals. I take half a teaspoon at night with bran, diluted in milk and triphala, and the effects improved significantly after two weeks.
7.5
Effective for digestion
8 people found this helpful
The first time I ordered Inulin, I had bowel function issues. According to reviews, I realised Inulin could assist, although I was initially unfamiliar with it. Following the recommended dosage on the site, I saw results quickly as my intestines functioned well from the first day. Bloating may occur but typically subsides after about five days. My digestive system now operates like clockwork, and my stomach feels much more comfortable.
9
Great for digestion
35 people found this helpful
I have been taking inulin for six months. After starting this supplement, my stomach improved, and the longstanding bloating ceased. Additionally, my blood sugar levels have decreased. My sister, aged 90, also took inulin and experienced enhancements in her stomach function and overall well-being, reflected in increased energy levels.
10
No bloating experienced
17 people found this helpful
Excellent inulin, which my family has taken for many years! It is essential for the small intestine's proper functioning. Once I began using it, I forgot what constipation, diarrhoea, or bloating felt like. It really improves my overall condition; hence, I highly recommend this inulin—1000%!
10
Bloating eliminated
1 people found this helpful
This inulin is excellent; my bloating has completely vanished and my stool returned to normal. I've forgotten about constipation and discomfort, and I feel this product is far superior to others available in pharmacies.
9
Reduced bloating noticeably
1 people found this helpful
I purchased Inulin while dieting, as it’s crucial for the intestines to function properly during this time. Inulin noticeably helped reduce bloating and discomfort after eating, and my bowel movements became more regular, which indicates a healthier digestive system. Additionally, Now Foods Inulin aided in appetite control and maintained normal blood sugar levels. Overall, I feel lighter and more comfortable since taking it.
4
Adaptation period needed
6 people found this helpful
As my doctor explained, prebiotics are essential for probiotics. I took one capsule of HealthyBiom probiotic before breakfast and then consumed Inulin mixed with warm water. Initially, I experienced excessive flatulence, worsening bloating, and colic, but after a few days, my body adapted, and everything functioned normally. My stools became regular and light. It's definitely effective when combined with a healthy diet.
10
Excellent relief
5 people found this helpful
This product is amazing! Prior to using inulin, I often took probiotics and monitored my diet meticulously to manage bloating and indigestion, but these efforts offered little relief. Inulin was the missing element; I now feel light and my digestion has improved significantly. I take between two to three teaspoons daily and highly recommend it.
2
Bloating varies individually
4 people found this helpful
I tried this inulin with my husband and liked the taste – slightly sweet and reminiscent of cotton candy. We added it to yoghurts and shakes. Inulin is a prebiotic that benefits intestinal microflora, but effects vary. My husband has irritable bowel syndrome, and it caused significant bloating for him. After removing Inulin, everything returned to normal. It works well for many, but one must consider individual tolerance.
7
We conducted a randomized study focusing on patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C). Our aim was to see how adding a specific food supplement that includes inulin, choline, and silymarin could help alleviate bloating and other IBS symptoms compared to a standard constipation diet alone.
After eight weeks of treatment, we observed a notable improvement in bloating severity. Specifically, the addition of the supplement led to a 34.8% reduction in bloating symptoms among participants who used it in conjunction with their diet. This indicates that inulin, as part of this combination, may have a positive effect on alleviating bloating.
However, while stool frequency and consistency did show some improvement, these results were not statistically significant when comparing the two groups. Therefore, while there are clear benefits to including inulin with other ingredients for bloating relief, we must recognize that inulin’s isolated effects are part of a larger picture.
After eight weeks of treatment, we observed a notable improvement in bloating severity. Specifically, the addition of the supplement led to a 34.8% reduction in bloating symptoms among participants who used it in conjunction with their diet. This indicates that inulin, as part of this combination, may have a positive effect on alleviating bloating.
However, while stool frequency and consistency did show some improvement, these results were not statistically significant when comparing the two groups. Therefore, while there are clear benefits to including inulin with other ingredients for bloating relief, we must recognize that inulin’s isolated effects are part of a larger picture.
8
We conducted a study involving 49 patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) to evaluate the impact of a specially formulated drink containing inulin, menthol, and pyridoxine on digestive symptoms, particularly bloating.
Over two weeks, one group consumed this drink alongside a standard diet, while a control group only followed the diet. We monitored daily reports of symptoms, including bloating, using a simple scale. Our findings were striking: participants who consumed the drink experienced a significant reduction in bloating scores, moving from an average of 2.22 to 1.53 on our scale. This improvement was statistically significant, suggesting that inulin can positively influence bloating in patients with IBS-C.
However, we also noted that some patients experienced side effects, such as heartburn. While the functional drink showed promise in reducing bloating and enhancing overall quality of life, these adverse effects indicate a need for further refinement of the drink's composition.
Over two weeks, one group consumed this drink alongside a standard diet, while a control group only followed the diet. We monitored daily reports of symptoms, including bloating, using a simple scale. Our findings were striking: participants who consumed the drink experienced a significant reduction in bloating scores, moving from an average of 2.22 to 1.53 on our scale. This improvement was statistically significant, suggesting that inulin can positively influence bloating in patients with IBS-C.
However, we also noted that some patients experienced side effects, such as heartburn. While the functional drink showed promise in reducing bloating and enhancing overall quality of life, these adverse effects indicate a need for further refinement of the drink's composition.
5
We conducted a comprehensive study involving patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to better understand how inulin, a type of carbohydrate, affects bloating and related symptoms. Utilizing a carefully designed cross-over study, we observed both IBS patients and healthy individuals as they consumed drinks containing inulin on multiple occasions.
Our findings revealed that patients reported more frequent symptoms after inulin consumption compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the physiological responses, such as the levels of gas produced in the intestines, were similar between both groups. However, what stood out was that IBS patients seemed to have heightened sensitivity to abdominal distension.
This suggests that the discomfort associated with inulin isn't necessarily due to creating more gas but rather a unique sensitivity of the colon in those suffering from IBS. While we noted that inulin may lead to bloating, it seems that addressing this discomfort involves understanding the patient's sensitivity rather than merely focusing on gas production levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the intricate relationship between inulin and bloating in IBS patients, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to treatment.
Our findings revealed that patients reported more frequent symptoms after inulin consumption compared to healthy controls. Interestingly, the physiological responses, such as the levels of gas produced in the intestines, were similar between both groups. However, what stood out was that IBS patients seemed to have heightened sensitivity to abdominal distension.
This suggests that the discomfort associated with inulin isn't necessarily due to creating more gas but rather a unique sensitivity of the colon in those suffering from IBS. While we noted that inulin may lead to bloating, it seems that addressing this discomfort involves understanding the patient's sensitivity rather than merely focusing on gas production levels. In conclusion, our study highlights the intricate relationship between inulin and bloating in IBS patients, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to treatment.
5
We explored the impact of a naturally inulin-rich soluble chicory extract (IRSCE) on gastrointestinal discomfort, particularly focusing on bloating. Our study involved two parts: a crossover trial with 18 subjects who consumed either sucrose or IRSCE in their morning coffee, and a longer term study where 35 subjects took IRSCE daily for four weeks.
During the crossover study, we observed a slight increase in overall abdominal discomfort when participants consumed the higher inulin dosage, which was statistically significant. In the longer-term study, however, we found no significant differences in gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, between those consuming IRSCE and those consuming a placebo.
Overall, our findings indicate that while some short-term discomfort may be associated with higher doses of inulin, both short- and long-term consumption of IRSCE containing 5 grams of inulin is generally well tolerated by healthy individuals. This suggests that inulin may not universally alleviate bloating and that individual responses can vary.
During the crossover study, we observed a slight increase in overall abdominal discomfort when participants consumed the higher inulin dosage, which was statistically significant. In the longer-term study, however, we found no significant differences in gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, between those consuming IRSCE and those consuming a placebo.
Overall, our findings indicate that while some short-term discomfort may be associated with higher doses of inulin, both short- and long-term consumption of IRSCE containing 5 grams of inulin is generally well tolerated by healthy individuals. This suggests that inulin may not universally alleviate bloating and that individual responses can vary.
4
We set out to understand how inulin, particularly from chicory, impacts bloating and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Our study involved a controlled and randomized design where twenty-six healthy adults participated in fiber challenges, receiving either native inulin, shorter chain oligofructose, or a placebo during breakfast.
Participants filled out questionnaires assessing their GI tolerance at various intervals after consuming the inulin products. We found that while both forms of inulin did demonstrate some tendency to increase GI symptoms, the most frequently reported concern was mild flatulence, followed by bloating.
Notably, while the 10-gram dose of oligofructose did lead to a substantial increase in GI symptoms compared to the placebo, both 10 grams of native inulin and 5 grams of oligofructose were generally well-tolerated in our healthy subjects. This means we didn’t see significant benefits or extreme discomfort directly associated with bloating from inulin intake within these amounts.
Overall, our findings suggest that people can consume inulin up to the reported doses with mild effects, but bloating may still be a commonly reported symptom, particularly when consuming larger doses.
Participants filled out questionnaires assessing their GI tolerance at various intervals after consuming the inulin products. We found that while both forms of inulin did demonstrate some tendency to increase GI symptoms, the most frequently reported concern was mild flatulence, followed by bloating.
Notably, while the 10-gram dose of oligofructose did lead to a substantial increase in GI symptoms compared to the placebo, both 10 grams of native inulin and 5 grams of oligofructose were generally well-tolerated in our healthy subjects. This means we didn’t see significant benefits or extreme discomfort directly associated with bloating from inulin intake within these amounts.
Overall, our findings suggest that people can consume inulin up to the reported doses with mild effects, but bloating may still be a commonly reported symptom, particularly when consuming larger doses.
4
Inulin boosts gut bacteria, causes bloating
We conducted a robust study to understand how inulin, specifically a very-long-chain type derived from globe artichoke, impacts gut health and bloating. Through a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over design, 32 healthy adults consumed 10 grams per day of either inulin or maltodextrin, allowing us to directly compare their effects on gut bacteria over several weeks.
Our results revealed that the ingestion of inulin significantly boosted the levels of beneficial bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, indicating its positive role as a prebiotic. However, it's important to note that we also observed an uptick in mild to moderate bloating among participants consuming inulin. While the increase in gut-friendly bacteria is promising, the associated bloating suggests that inulin’s effects on digestive comfort can vary.
Ultimately, we found that the daily consumption of this inulin type was well-tolerated by all volunteers, despite the bloating side effect. This research highlights the complex nature of dietary fibers like inulin, which can enhance gut health but may also lead to some discomfort for certain individuals.
Our results revealed that the ingestion of inulin significantly boosted the levels of beneficial bacteria, particularly bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, indicating its positive role as a prebiotic. However, it's important to note that we also observed an uptick in mild to moderate bloating among participants consuming inulin. While the increase in gut-friendly bacteria is promising, the associated bloating suggests that inulin’s effects on digestive comfort can vary.
Ultimately, we found that the daily consumption of this inulin type was well-tolerated by all volunteers, despite the bloating side effect. This research highlights the complex nature of dietary fibers like inulin, which can enhance gut health but may also lead to some discomfort for certain individuals.
5
We engaged in a comprehensive study to compare the digestive tolerance of various inulin-type fructans over a period of two weeks. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 84 healthy volunteers participated, testing products like Fibrulose F97 and Fibruline Instant at different dosages.
We recorded various digestive symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and flatulence, using visual analogue scales. While we noted that the three types of inulin did lead to a mild increase in symptoms, particularly with Fibruline Instant at the highest dose of 20 grams per day, the overall changes were not severe.
Importantly, despite some variations, the different inulin treatments were generally well tolerated. The increase in bloating and other symptoms was significant for the highest dose of Fibruline Instant, but not enough to indicate a problematic response. Therefore, we can say that inulin-type fructans are well tolerated by most people, with only mild digestive discomfort reported.
We recorded various digestive symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and flatulence, using visual analogue scales. While we noted that the three types of inulin did lead to a mild increase in symptoms, particularly with Fibruline Instant at the highest dose of 20 grams per day, the overall changes were not severe.
Importantly, despite some variations, the different inulin treatments were generally well tolerated. The increase in bloating and other symptoms was significant for the highest dose of Fibruline Instant, but not enough to indicate a problematic response. Therefore, we can say that inulin-type fructans are well tolerated by most people, with only mild digestive discomfort reported.
4
We conducted a nutritional trial to explore the combined effects of inulin and coffee-cascara extract on yogurt, specifically focusing on bloating and other gastrointestinal responses. Our study involved multiple yogurt formulations with varying levels of inulin, including a control yogurt without inulin.
We observed that adding 3% inulin to the yogurt had a similar gastrointestinal tolerance to the yogurt without inulin. However, when we increased the inulin to 7% and 13%, we discovered significant bloating and flatulence compared to the control. This suggests that while inulin may improve the texture and nutritional profile of yogurt, higher amounts can lead to discomfort for some individuals.
Overall, our findings indicate that while moderate levels of inulin can enhance yogurt's benefits, excessive amounts might lead to unwanted gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating. This highlights the importance of finding the right balance to maximize health benefits while minimizing discomfort.
We observed that adding 3% inulin to the yogurt had a similar gastrointestinal tolerance to the yogurt without inulin. However, when we increased the inulin to 7% and 13%, we discovered significant bloating and flatulence compared to the control. This suggests that while inulin may improve the texture and nutritional profile of yogurt, higher amounts can lead to discomfort for some individuals.
Overall, our findings indicate that while moderate levels of inulin can enhance yogurt's benefits, excessive amounts might lead to unwanted gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating. This highlights the importance of finding the right balance to maximize health benefits while minimizing discomfort.
References
- Bărboi OB, Chirilă I, Ciortescu I, Anton C, Drug VL. Inulin, Choline and Silymarin in the Treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation-Randomized Case-Control Study. J Clin Med. 2022;11. doi:10.3390/jcm11082248
- Iriondo-DeHond M, Iriondo-DeHond A, Herrera T, Fernández-Fernández AM, Sorzano COS, et al. Sensory Acceptance, Appetite Control and Gastrointestinal Tolerance of Yogurts Containing Coffee-Cascara Extract and Inulin. Nutrients. 2020;12. doi:10.3390/nu12030627
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