Organic Jerusalem Artichoke, 6oz

Benefits

• May help support a healthy gut microbiome
• Provides prebiotic fibre to nourish beneficial bacteria
• May help support regular bowel movements
• May help support digestive health when part of a balanced diet
• Helps increase dietary fibre intake
• May help support calcium absorption as part of a balanced diet

What people commonly use it for

• Occasional constipation (Some clinical studies suggest inulin may soften stools and increase frequency)
• Low fibre intake (Good evidence that it adds soluble fibre to the diet)
• Wanting to feed good gut bacteria (Good evidence that inulin increases bifidobacteria in the gut)
• Feeling sluggish digestively (Some clinical studies suggest benefit)
• Occasional gas when starting (a common experience) (Well documented; starting with small amounts helps)

Suggested to use alongside

• Probiotic: Friendly bacteria that use prebiotic fibre
• Psyllium husk: Fibre to support regularity
• Digestive enzymes: Support breakdown of food

Inulin is a fructan, a chain of fructose units joined by beta (2-1) bonds that human digestive enzymes cannot break. It therefore passes into the colon, where bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and some Faecalibacterium ferment it.

Fermentation produces short-chain fatty acids including acetate, propionate and butyrate. Butyrate is the preferred fuel of the cells lining the colon, while other fatty acids are absorbed and used elsewhere in the body. Fermentation also lowers the pH of the colon, which favours friendly bacteria and may improve mineral absorption.

Chain length. Native inulin from chicory has chains of about 2 to 60 units. Shorter chains (oligofructose or fructo-oligosaccharides) ferment faster, higher in the bowel, while long-chain inulin ferments slower and further along the colon. Many products combine both.

Effects on stool. Inulin holds water and increases bacterial mass, which can improve stool softness and frequency. A systematic review concluded that chicory-type inulin can improve stool frequency in adults with mild constipation (Collado Yurrita et al., 2017).

Because fermentation produces gas, introduce inulin gradually and drink plenty of water. Most people tolerate a few grams a day well, and the amount can then be built up over a couple of weeks as the gut bacteria adapt to the extra fibre.

• Size: 6oz
• Form: Powder
• Organic

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Supplier ref: Organic Jerusalem Artichoke Inulin Powder- Bulk Prebiotic 6Oz 60 Serving

What is inulin?

It is a soluble plant fibre and prebiotic found in chicory root and other vegetables. It feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut.

Is inulin a prebiotic or a probiotic?

It is a prebiotic. Probiotics are live bacteria, while prebiotics are the fibres that nourish them.

Does inulin cause gas and bloating?

It can, especially at first or at higher amounts, because gut bacteria ferment it. Starting with a small amount and building up slowly usually helps.

When is the best time to take inulin?

Any time suits, though many people take it with a meal or mixed into a drink or smoothie. Take it consistently.

How long does inulin take to work?

Gut bacteria begin responding within days, and bowel changes are often noticed in one to two weeks.

Can I take inulin with probiotics?

Yes. Combining a prebiotic with a probiotic is a common approach to supporting gut health.

Inulin may cause wind, bloating or loose stools, especially in large amounts. It is high in FODMAPs, so people on a low-FODMAP diet should seek advice. Avoid if allergic to chicory or ragweed family plants, and drink plenty of fluid.

This product comes from a smaller independent supplier. Supporting small and family-owned makers is a big part of what we do.

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