A new literature review conducted by Dávid U. Nagy et al. has demonstrated intake of chicory root fibre (starting at three grams a day) promotes significant Bifidobacteria growth in the gut microbiome as well as improve bowel function parameters. It is the first study based on randomised control trials that has investigated the effect of inulin-type fructans derived from chicory root on Bifidobacteria abundance in gut microbiota and health-related outcomes.
Included in the review were 50 human intervention studies with a total of 2495 participants, who were selected based on a literature search and review process following guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and Interventions. The research evidenced that inulin, oligofructose and combinations derived from chicory root act as a bifidogenic factor, promoting selective growth of Bifidobacteria. The review also demonstrates that chicory root fibre is a prebiotic complying with the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) definition.
Researchers also reported that the bifodogenic effects of the chicory root fibres were accompanied by improved bowl regularity in infants and children.
“I am extremely pleased that this detailed critical systematic review with meta-analyses has been conducted. Following the highest quality scientific evidence methodology, the prebiotic effect of inulin-type fructans sourced from the chicory root is confirmed,” said Anke Sentko, Vice President Regulatory Affairs & Nutrition Communication at Beneo. “It yet again shows that integrating chicory root fibres into a person’s daily diet supports Bifidobacteria and thus their gut microbiome, while also improving the bowel functions of the very young to the very old.”
Beneo’s prebiotic fibres Inulin and Oligofructose are inulin-type fructans derived from chicory root using a gentle hot water extraction method. They can be used in a wide range of food and beverage applications. As proven prebiotics, chicory root fibres support healthy gut microbiota and selectively promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms scuh as Bifidobacteria in the gut.
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