Health-promoting properties of inulin and oligofructose

Part 1: Dietary fibre effects, prebiotic properties, improvement of absorption of calcium and associated secondary effects

B. Pool-Zobel, Jena

Inulin and oligofructose are soluble fibres, which control the activity of the bowels and lead to a selective enrichment of bifidobacteria in the gut. They are increasingly used to improve the nutritional profile of countless foodstuffs following scientific studies demonstrating various health promoting effects. These soluble fibres improve gut health by selectively stimulating beneficial bifidobacteria (and lactobacilli) in the gut.

In addition inulin and oligofructose have been shown to improve the absorption of calcium in the intestines. The positive impact on gut metabolism results in a number of possible secondary effects. These are currently being investigated by experimental approaches and animals studies as well as human intervention trials.

Possible effects include the improvement of bone mineralisation, favourable effects in respect to the metabolic syndrome, enhancement of the body’s natural defences, as well as a reduction of the risk of colon cancer. This article gives an overview of the state of art on the research with selected clearly defined qualities of inulin-type fructans. It evaluates the level of evidence and classifies the dietary fibre effects, prebiotic properties and effects on the absorption of calcium.

These assessments were carried out by an independent scientific body (BENEO™ see information boxes) and are necessary to support the recommendations for the consumption of these natural ingredients as part of a balanced diet.

Key words: inulin, oligofructose, dietary fibre, soluble fibre, bifidobacteria, prebiotic properties

Sie finden den Artikel in deutscher Sprache in Ernährungs-Umschau 01/07 ab Seite 8.