PRODUCTS

INULINE

Inuline also serves as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacteria, which can improve digestive health and enhance nutrient absorption.
Inuline is commonly added to dairy products like yogurt and cheese to improve texture and increase fiber content.

CAS Number: 9005-80-5
EC (EINECS) Number: 232-684-3
Molecular Formula: (C₆H₁₀O₅)ₙ
(polymer of fructose units, typically terminated by one glucose unit)
Molecular Weight: Variable (polymeric)
Common average range: ~3,000 – 10,000 g/mol
Degree of polymerization (DP): typically 2–60+, depending on source and processing

SYNONYMS:
Inuline, Anthraniloyllycoctonine, Anthranoyllycoctonine, Monoanthraniloyllycoctonine, (+)-Anthranoyllycoctonine, O(sup 14)-Methyldelectine, Swatinine B, Lycoctonine, monoanthranilate (ester), O14-Methyldelectine, BRN 0072684, Lycoctonine, anthraniloyl-, 22413-78-1, Aconitane-7,8-diol, 4-(((2-aminobenzoyl)oxy)methyl)-20-ethyl-1,6,14,16-tetramethoxy-, (1-alpha,6-beta,14-alpha,16-beta)-, 4-21-00-02879 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)Anthranoyllycoctonine, Inuline, CHEBI:2759, CHEMBL451362, 22413-78-1, Anthraniloyllycoctonine, C08659, Q27105808, [(1S,2R,3R,4S,5R,6S,8R,9S,13S,16S,17R,18S)-11-ethyl-8,9-dihydroxy-4,6,16,18-tetramethoxy-11-azahexacyclo[7.7.2.12,5.01,10.03,8.013,17]nonadecan-13-yl]methyl 2-aminobenzoate, [(2R,3R,4S,5R,6S,8R,13S,16S,17R,18S)-11-ethyl-8,9-dihydroxy-4,6,16,18-tetramethoxy-11-azahexacyclo[7.7.2.12,5.01,10.03,8.013,17]nonadecan-13-yl]methyl 2-aminobenzoate, C08659, Inuline, Inuline【alkaloid】, ANTHRANOYLLYCOCTONINE, (+)-Anthraniloyllycoctonine, 20-Ethyl-4-[(anthraniloyloxy)methyl]-1α,6β,14α,16β-tetramethoxyaconitane-7,8-diol, 4-[[(2-Aminobenzoyl)oxy]methyl]-20-ethyl-1α,6β,14α,16β-tetramethoxyaconitane-7,8-diol, (+)-4-(2-Aminobenzoyloxymethyl)-20-ethyl-1α,6β,14α,16β-tetramethoxyaconitane-7,8-diol

Inuline is a group of naturally occurring polysaccharides produced by many types of plants, industrially most often extracted from chicory.
Inuline is used by some plants as a means of storing energy and is typically found in roots or rhizomes.
Most plants that synthesize and store Inuline do not store other forms of carbohydrate such as starch.

The Inuline belongs to a class of dietary fiber known as fructans.
In 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved Inuline as a dietary fiber ingredient used to improve the nutritional value of manufactured food products.

Using Inuline to measure kidney function is the "gold standard" for comparison with other means of estimating glomerular filtration rate.
Inuline is a diterpene alkaloid.
Inuline is functionally related to an aconitane.

Inuline has been reported in Delphinium barbeyi, Delphinium flexuosum, and other organisms with data available
Inuline is a type of prebiotic.
Inuline's not digested or absorbed in the stomach.

Inuline stays in the bowel and helps certain beneficial bacteria to grow.
Inuline is a starchy substance found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including wheat, onions, bananas, leeks, artichokes, and asparagus.

The Inuline that is used in supplements most commonly comes from soaking chicory roots in hot water.
Inuline is a prebiotic fiber that feeds good bacteria in the gut.
It is not naturally produced in the body, but Inuline can have multiple benefits and is found in many foods, including leeks, asparagus, garlic, oats, and soy.

As a popular prebiotic, Inuline is not digested in the intestines.
Instead, it remains in the colon where it nourishes gut microbes and helps them grow.
Inuline powder is a vegan source of Inuline, perfect for adding to drinks, cakes and smoothies every day.

Inuline is a supplement you may not have heard of until recently, or perhaps not at all.
Inuline recently gained attention with its appearances in BBC documentaries, which led to new research within the scientific literature.

Inuline's time in the spotlight is no surprise, as this soluble fiber is said to have a whole host of health benefits, including improvements in blood sugar control, weight management, and digestive health.
Inuline is a type of soluble fiber found in various vegetables.

It belongs to a class of carbohydrates known as fructans.
This means they are composed of fructose molecules specifically linked together to avoid digestion in the small intestine.

Inuline is a type of dietary fiber.
Research has linked it to several health benefits, such as improving digestive health, helping control diabetes, and helping weight loss.
Inuline is a dietary fiber that can benefit gut health.

Plants naturally contain Inuline, and some manufacturers add it to processed foods.
Inuline is a naturally occurring polysaccharide and a type of soluble dietary fiber found in many plants, such as chicory root, garlic, onions, and Jerusalem artichokes.

USES and APPLICATIONS of INULINE:
People commonly use Inuline by mouth for weight loss, constipation, and diabetes.
Inuline's also used for high blood fats, including cholesterol and triglycerides, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Inuline is not digested and travels to the intestines, where it acts as a prebiotic.
Prebiotics help nourish and increase the number of beneficial bacteria in our digestive system.
Use of Inuline: Skin and hair hydration, in hair care, such as a conditioner.

Inuline's primary applications span the food, pharmaceutical, and health industries due to its functional and health-promoting properties.
In the food industry, Inuline is widely used as a fat replacer in low-fat and reduced-calorie products, providing a creamy texture without adding significant calories.

In beverages, baked goods, and confectionery, Inuline can act as a sugar or fat substitute, improving mouthfeel while reducing caloric content.
In the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, Inuline is used as a dietary supplement to support gut health and maintain healthy blood sugar levels, as it has a minimal impact on blood glucose.

Inuline is also used in clinical settings to measure kidney function through inulin clearance tests because it is freely filtered by the kidneys and not metabolized.
Additionally, Inuline has applications as a stabilizer, thickener, or bulking agent in various formulations, and it is valued for its ability to improve the bioavailability of certain minerals such as calcium and magnesium by enhancing their absorption in the intestine.
Its functional versatility and health benefits make Inuline a valuable ingredient across a wide range of food and health-related products.

-Harvesting and extraction uses of Inuline:
Chicory root is the main source of extraction for commercial production of Inuline.
The extraction process for Inuline is similar to obtaining sugar from sugar beets.

After harvest, the chicory roots are sliced and washed, then soaked in a solvent (hot water or ethanol); the Inuline is then isolated, purified, and spray dried.
Inuline may also be synthesized from sucrose.

-Processed foods use of Inuline:
Inuline received no-objection status as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), including long-chain Inuline as GRAS.
In the early 21st century, the use of Inuline in processed foods was due in part to its adaptable characteristics for manufacturing.

It is approved by the FDA as an ingredient to enhance the dietary fiber value of manufactured foods.
Inuline's flavor ranges from bland to subtly sweet (about 10% of the sweetness of sugar or sucrose).
Inuline can be used to replace sugar, fat, and flour.

This is advantageous because Inuline contains 25–35% of the food energy of carbohydrates (starch and sugar).
In addition to being a versatile ingredient, Inuline provides nutritional advantages by increasing calcium absorption and possibly magnesium absorption, while promoting the growth of intestinal bacteria.

Chicory Inuline is reported to increase absorption of calcium in young women with lower calcium absorption and in young men.
In terms of nutrition, Inuline is considered a form of soluble fiber and is sometimes categorized as a prebiotic.
Inuline is also considered a FODMAP, a class of carbohydrates which are rapidly fermented in the colon producing gas.

Although FODMAPs may cause certain digestive discomfort in some people, they produce potentially favorable alterations in the intestinal flora that contribute to maintaining health of the colon.

Due to the body's limited ability to process fructans, Inuline has minimal increasing impact on blood sugar, and may potentially have use in managing blood sugar-related illnesses, such as metabolic syndrome.

-Medical uses of Inuline:
Inuline and its analog sinistrin are used to help measure kidney function by determining the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is the volume of fluid filtered from the renal (kidney) glomerular capillaries into the Bowman's capsule per unit time.

While Inuline is the gold standard for measuring the GFR, it is rarely used in practice due to the expense and difficulty in conducting the test; it requires intravenous (IV) access for the infusion of Inuline as well as up to twelve blood samples taken from the patient over the course of four hours.

To determine the glomerular filtration rate in humans, a large initial dose of Inuline is injected, which is followed by a constant infusion of Inuline at a rate which compensates for its loss in the urine, thus maintaining a reasonably constant level in the plasma.

In the United States, creatinine clearance is more widely used to estimate GFR.
A 2017 systematic review of low-to-moderate quality clinical trial research showed that dietary supplementation with Inuline-type fructans reduced blood levels of low-density cholesterol, a biomarker of cardiovascular disease

WHERE DOES INULINE COME FROM?
Inuline naturally occurs in many plants, but manufacturers can also modify it for commercial use.

Natural sources
Inuline occurs in around 36,000 species of plants, and researchers say that chicory roots are the richest source.
Many plants contain only small amounts of Inuline, while others are excellent sources.
Here’s how much Inuline is in 3.5 ounces (oz), or 100 grams (g), of the following foods:
*chicory root, 35.7–47.6 g
*Jerusalem artichoke, 16–20 g
*garlic, 9–16 g
*raw asparagus, 2–3 g
*raw onion pulp, 1.1–7.5 g
*wheat, 1–3.8 g
*raw barley, 0.5–1 g

Manufactured sources
Inuline is also available in supplement form or as an ingredient in:
*protein bars
*cereal bars
*yogurts and other milk products
*drinks
*baked goods
*desserts

Manufactured Inuline comes in several forms:
Chicory Inuline:
Extract from chicory root.
High-performance (HP) Inuline:
Manufacturers create HP Inuline by removing the shorter molecules from it.
Fiber supplements that are closely related to Inuline are fructooligosaccharides, also known as oligofructose.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF INULINE:
People take Inuline for a variety of reasons.
Inuline may improve digestive health, relieve constipation, promote weight loss, and help control diabetes.

*Improves digestive health
The gut microbiota is the population of bacteria and other microbes that live in the gut.
This community is highly complex and contains both good and bad bacteria.
Having the right balance of bacteria is essential for keeping the gut healthy and protect the body from disease.

Inuline can help promote this balance.
In fact, studies have shown that Inuline can help stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Increasing the amounts of healthful bacteria can help improve digestion, immunity, and overall health.

*Relieves constipation
For many people, Inuline may also help relieve symptoms of constipation.
One analysis found that people taking Inuline experienced more frequent bowel movements and improved stool consistency.
In another 4-week study, older adults who consumed 15 g of Inuline per day reported less constipation and better digestion.

*Promotes weight loss
Several studies indicate that Inuline can also help with weight loss.
In one weight loss study, people with prediabetes took Inuline or another fiber called cellulose for 18 weeks.
Those taking Inuline lost significantly more weight between 9 and 18 weeks.
However, some studies of children with overweight or obesity have not found that oligofructose or Inuline reduce calorie intake.

*Helps control diabetes
Several studies suggest that Inuline may improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes and prediabetes.
However, this may depend on the type of Inuline.
The high-performance (HP) type may be especially beneficial.

For example, one study found that HP Inuline decreased fat in the livers of people with prediabetes.
This is significant, as some research says that reducing fat in the liver can help reduce insulin resistance and potentially reverse type 2 diabetes.
In another study, females with type 2 diabetes consumed 10 g of HP Inuline per day.

Their fasting blood sugar decreased by an average of 8.5%, while hemoglobin A1c — a marker for long-term blood sugar control — fell by an average of 10.4%.
However, although HP Inuline may benefit diabetes and prediabetes, results from older studies using some other types of Inuline are less consistent.

*Improved mineral absorption and bone health
Inuline improves calcium and magnesium absorption, resulting in improved bone density.
According to a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) review, scientific evidence supports the idea that Inuline-type fructans can benefit bone mineral density and how well the body absorbs calcium.

BIOCHEMISTRY of INULINE:
Inulines are polymers composed mainly of fructose units (fructans), and typically have a terminal glucose.
The fructose units in Inulines are joined by a β(2→1) glycosidic bond.
The molecule is almost exclusively linear, with only a few percent branching.

In general, plant Inulines contain between 2 and 70 fructose units or sometimes as high as 200, but molecules with less than 10 units are called fructo-oligosaccharides, the simplest being 1-kestose, which has two fructose units and one glucose unit.
Bacterial Inuline is more highly branched (more than 15% branching) and contains on the order of tens or hundreds of subunits.

Inuline is named in the following manner, where n is the number of fructose residues and py is the abbreviation for pyranosyl.
Inulines with a terminal glucose are known as alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-beta-D-fructofuranosyl-D-fructofuranosides, abbreviated as GpyFn.

Inulines without glucose are beta-D-fructopyranosyl-D-fructofuranosyl-D-fructofuranosides, abbreviated as FpyFn.
Hydrolysis of Inulines may yield fructo-oligosaccharides, which are oligomers with a degree of polymerization (DP) of 10 or less.

NATURAL SOURCES of INULINE:
Foods that contain Inuline:
Chicory root (up to 18g per 100g)
Jerusalem artichoke (up to 13g per 100g)
Dandelion greens (13.5 grams per 100g)
Garlic (up to 12.5g per 100g)
Leeks (6.5g per 100g)
Onions (4.3g per 100g)
Asparagus (2.5g per 100g)
Wheat bran (2.5g per 100g)
Barley (0.8g per 100g)
Bananas (0.5g per 100g)

USES & EFFECTIVENESS of INULINE:
Possibly Effective for
*Constipation.
Taking Inuline by mouth seems to help relieve constipation in some children and adults.
Inuline increases the number of stools by up to about one per week.
But Inuline might not reduce discomfort.

*Diabetes.
Taking Inuline by mouth along with antidiabetes drugs might improve blood sugar levels in some people with diabetes, short-term.
But it's not clear if Inuline helps long-term.

*Obesity.
Taking Inuline by mouth might increase short-term weight loss.
But it's not clear if Inuline helps with long-term weight loss or weight maintenance in people who are overweight or obese.

There is interest in using Inuline for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Inuline is a type of dietary fiber that is often available in a powder form.
Research has linked Inuline to various health benefits, like helping control diabetes, improving digestive health, and aiding weight loss.

Inuline is a dietary fiber that may benefit gut health.
Plants naturally contain Inuline, and some manufacturers add it to processed foods.

Inuline is a type of soluble fiber found in many plants.
Inuline is also fructan.

Like other fructans, it is a prebiotic, meaning that it feeds the good bacteria in the gut.
Fructans are chains of fructose molecules.

The molecules link together in a way that the small intestine cannot break down.
Instead, they travel to the lower gut, where they feed beneficial gut bacteria.

The gut bacteria convert Inuline and other prebiotics into short-chain fatty acids, which nourish colon cells and provide various other health benefits.
Plants containing Inuline have been around for thousands of years, and some early humans consumed much more Inuline than we do today.

Manufacturers add Inuline to processed products to:
*boost the prebiotic content of foods
*replace fat in foods
*replace sugar in foods
*alter the texture of foods
*improve the health benefits of foods due to its benefits for gut health

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES OF INULINE:
Inuline is a heterogeneous collection of fructose polymers.
Inuline consists of chain-terminating glucosyl moieties and a repetitive fructosyl moiety, which are linked by β(2,1) bonds.

The degree of polymerization (DP) of standard Inuline ranges from 2 to 60.
After removing the fractions with DP lower than 10 during manufacturing process, the remaining product is high-performance Inuline.
Some articles considered the fractions with DP lower than 10 as short-chained fructo-oligosaccharides, and only called the longer-chained molecules Inuline.

Because of the β(2,1) linkages, Inuline is not digested by enzymes in the human alimentary system, contributing to its functional properties: reduced calorie value, dietary fiber, and prebiotic effects.
Without color and odor, Inuline has little impact on sensory characteristics of food products.

Oligofructose has 35% of the sweetness of sucrose, and its sweetening profile is similar to sugar.
Standard Inuline is slightly sweet, while high-performance Inuline is not.
Inuline's solubility is higher than the classical fibers.

When thoroughly mixed with liquid, Inuline forms a gel and a white creamy structure, which is similar to fat.
Its three-dimensional gel network, consisting of insoluble submicron crystalline Inuline particles, immobilizes a large amount of water, assuring its physical stability.
Inuline can also improve the stability of foams and emulsions.

WHAT IS INULINE USED FOR?
After answering the question, Inuline is necessary to talk about its benefits.
The benefits of Inuline come from the fact that it is a soluble prebiotic fiber.

*Positively Affects Intestinal Health
The intestines form their microbiota with many good and bad bacteria.
Inuline can provide benefits to the body such as boosting the body's immune system, maintaining the health of the intestines, and increasing nutrient absorption.

Wheat bran fiber contributes to increasing stool volume and accelerating intestinal transit.
Since Inuline also supports the formation of probiotic bacteria, it can help prevent or heal digestive system disorders such as constipation by increasing intestinal movements.

THE BENEFITS OF INULINE:
This soluble fiber has various health benefits, including relieving constipation, supporting immune function, and aiding in weight loss.

*Intestinal Health
Without enough good bacteria in the gut, we can't properly digest food, especially fiber.
If "bad" bacteria thrive and the microbiome is unbalanced, we can experience stomach aches, bloating, and more.
Inuline helps increase the volume of good bacteria in the gut, which promotes healthy digestion, blood sugar control, and protection from pathogens.

*Relieving constipation
Studies show that Inuline helps increase bowel movement frequency while slowing down overall digestion.
This allows the body to better absorb nutrients from food.

*Blood pressure management
Although more research is needed on Inuline and heart health, this fiber is thought to help lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

*Improved sleep quality
In a recent BBC documentary, Dr. Michael Mosley took prebiotics, including Inuline, for five days and experienced a significant improvement in both the duration and quality of his sleep.

Indeed, the beneficial bacteria in the microbiome promote resilience to stress and allow more time for REM sleep.
The data also indicate that poor sleep, mood disorders, and immune function problems are linked to low microbiome diversity.
In fact, 60 minutes of waking during the night has been associated with a 26% reduction in gut microbiome diversity.

INULINE DOSAGE:
In addition to supplementing your diet, it is important to get fiber from foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
When using our Inuline powder, we suggest adding 5g to your drinks, shakes, or meals.
It's light, meaning it's easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
If you are unsure how much Inuline you should take, please consult a healthcare professional.

FEATURES of INULINE:
β-(1,2)-fructose, polysaccharide
Inuline is a polysaccharide that replaces starch as a storage substance in plants of the star and bell family.
Inuline is a polymer composed of fructose units linked together by a β(1,2) glycosidic bond.
The number of units varies from 2 to 140, usually from 20 to 30.
The final sugar unit is usually glucose.
It acts like a soluble fiber.
Solubility: soluble in water
Raw material for the production of cosmetics.

OTHER POTENTIAL BENEFITS of INULINE:
There is some evidence that Inuline supplements may help other conditions, although the evidence is not as strong.
This includes benefits for heart health, mineral absorption, colon cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

*May support heart health
Inuline may improve several markers for heart health.
In one study, females who received 10 g of HP Inuline for 8 weeks had significant decreases in both triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
However, other studies have reported smaller reductions in triglycerides, and no improvements in other markers.

*May help prevent colon cancer
Some researchers think that Inuline could help protect the cells in the colon.
This is because of how Inuline ferments into butyrate.
For this reason, several studies have looked into its effects on colon health.
An older study on humans found that Inuline caused the colon environment to be less favorable for cancer development, which is promising.
This may lead to a reduced risk of colon cancer, but more research is needed.

*May help treat IBD
Research suggests that Inuline, as a prebiotic, can have benefits for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by improving gut flora and decreasing inflammation in the gut.
A few small human studies have also found reduced symptoms of ulcerative colitis, and a reduction in inflammatory markers in Crohn’s disease.
Nevertheless, researchers are not yet ready to recommend the use of Inuline in treating IBD.

WHAT IS INULINE USED FOR?
*Helps Control Blood Sugar
Eating low-fiber diets can be considered a risk factor for diabetes.
Inuline, on the other hand, can have a preventive effect on blood sugar fluctuations thanks to its fiber structure.

*Supports Weight Loss
Soluble fibers are substances that provide satiety for a long time when consumed.
Thanks to Inuline's low calories and long-lasting satiety, sudden cravings for food are prevented and may help weight loss over time.

*May Increase Calcium and Magnesium Absorption
Since Inuline fiber can reach the intestines, it helps increase the absorption of certain minerals in the intestines.
While Inuline can prevent increased calcium and magnesium absorption deficiencies, it helps to benefit from the benefits of these minerals to the maximum extent.

*May Help Regulate Blood Fats
Inuline consumption may play a role in preventing the rise of cholesterol and triglycerides.
Inuline may also have positive effects on cardiovascular health by increasing HDL (good cholesterol) levels.

*Possible Benefits in Preventing Colon Cancer
Inuline increases the synthesis of beneficial bifidobacteria in the intestines.
Inuline is increased bifidobacteria help prevent the formation of procarcinogenic substances.
Inuline helps to excrete substances that may pose a risk of cancer if their formation is not prevented, through the feces.

METABOLISM IN VIVO, INULINE:
Inuline is indigestible by the human enzymes ptyalin and amylase, which are adapted to digest starch.
As a result, Inuline passes through much of the digestive system intact.

Only in the colon do bacteria metabolise Inuline, with the release of significant quantities of carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and/or methane.
Inuline-containing foods can be rather gassy, in particular for those unaccustomed to Inuline, and these foods should be consumed in moderation at first.

Inuline is a soluble fiber, one of three types of dietary fiber including soluble, insoluble, and resistant starch.
Inuline is soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gelatinous material.
Some soluble fibers may help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels.

Because normal digestion does not break Inuline down into monosaccharides, it does not elevate blood sugar levels and may, therefore, be helpful in the management of diabetes.
Inuline also stimulates the growth of bacteria in the gut.

Inuline passes through the stomach and duodenum undigested and is highly available to the gut bacterial flora.
This makes Inuline similar to resistant starches and other fermentable carbohydrates.

Some traditional diets contain over 20 g per day of Inuline or fructo-oligosaccharides.
The diet of the prehistoric hunter-forager in the Chihuahuan Desert has been estimated to include 135 g per day of Inuline-type fructans.

Many foods naturally high in Inuline or fructo-oligosaccharides, such as chicory, garlic, and leek, have been seen as "stimulants of good health" for centuries.
As of 2013, no regulatory authority had permitted health claims in the marketing of prebiotics as a class.

Inuline's health effects had been studied in small clinical trials, which showed that it causes gastrointestinal adverse effects such as bloating and flatulence, does not affect triglyceride levels or development of fatty liver, may help prevent travelers' diarrhea, and may help increase calcium absorption in adolescents.

IS INULINE A FIBER?
Inuline is a low-calorie soluble fiber containing 1.5 calories per gram.
Although Inuline is a form of carbohydrate, as it is composed of fructose molecules, it contains significantly fewer calories than carbohydrates because the fiber cannot be broken down or absorbed by the digestive system.
When consumed, soluble fiber absorbs water and then turns into a gel-like substance.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF INULINE:
Influence of Inuline on weight loss
Do you always feel hungry while trying to lose weight?
Inuline has been shown to help you reach your weight loss goals by regulating your appetite and reducing those hunger pangs.

Inuline works by altering specific hormones that control your appetite, helping to reduce the number of calories you eat by reducing your hunger.
The results appear quite impressive.
For example, studies have shown that individuals can lose between 2 and 13 pounds (1–6 kg) within 12 to 18 weeks by adding Inuline powder to their diet.

Not only are these individuals able to reduce their body weight by supplementing with Inuline powder, but they are also able to reduce ectopic fat storage.
Ectopic fat refers to fat stored in other parts of the body, such as the liver and muscle tissue.
Fat storage in these areas is particularly concerning given its close link to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Influence of Inuline on blood sugar control
Inuline may help improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.
This is important because rising blood sugar levels can lead to a number of other metabolic disorders and poor health.
One of the ways Inuline does this is by reducing the amount of fat in the liver, which may help improve our sensitivity to a hormone called insulin.

Insulin is an important hormone in controlling blood sugar levels because it helps remove glucose from the blood into the liver or muscle, where it can later be stored as energy.
Therefore, if Inuline can improve insulin sensitivity, we become more efficient at removing glucose from the blood and have better control over our blood sugar levels in the long term.

Influence of Inuline on digestion
The large intestine is home to over 400 species of bacteria, often referred to as "good" or "bad" bacteria.
High levels of certain bacteria are important for our health, but imbalances can also lead to disease.

Inuline plays a key role in maintaining this balance by acting as a prebiotic that helps nourish and increase the number of these beneficial bacteria.
Maintaining these "good bacteria" in the body is important because they play a vital role in digesting food.

BEST INULINE SOURCES:
While Inuline is found in over 3,000 vegetables, the primary sources come from foods like garlic, asparagus roots, artichokes, and chicory root, all of which contain 15–20% Inuline.
Inuline can also be found in some more common foods like bananas, onions, leeks, and barley, although many of these contain only 1–5% Inuline.

However, since the average fiber intake in the Netherlands is 10–15 g lower than the recommended values, many will find it difficult to get enough soluble fiber in their diet.
As such, it may be useful to take Inuline as a supplement.

INULINE DOSAGE:
When you first start taking Inuline, it's generally recommended to start slowly, perhaps by adding Inuline from food to your diet to begin with.
If you decide to start taking Inuline, start with small doses of 2–3 g per day for the first two weeks, followed by small increases of 1–2 g per week up to a dose of around 10 g per day.
While some studies have used intakes as high as 20–30 g per day, intakes in these ranges are likely to lead to more side effects.

CALCULATION OF GLOMERULAR FILTRATION RATE OF INULINE:
Inuline is uniquely treated by nephrons in that it is completely filtered at the glomerulus but neither secreted nor reabsorbed by the tubules.
This property of Inuline allows the clearance of it to be used clinically as a highly accurate measure of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) — the rate of plasma from the afferent arteriole that is filtered into Bowman's capsule measured in ml/min.

It is informative to contrast the properties of Inuline with those of para-aminohippuric acid (PAH).
PAH is partially filtered from plasma at the glomerulus and not reabsorbed by the tubules, in a manner identical to Inuline.

PAH is different from Inuline in that the fraction of PAH that bypasses the glomerulus and enters the nephron's tubular cells (via the peritubular capillaries) is completely secreted.
Renal clearance of PAH is thus useful in calculation of renal plasma flow (RPF), which empirically is (1-hematocrit) times renal blood flow.

Of note, the clearance of PAH is reflective only of RPF to portions of the kidney that deal with urine formation, and, thus, underestimates the actual RPF by about 10%.

The measurement of GFR by Inuline or sinistrin is still considered the gold standard.
However, Inuline has now been largely replaced by other, simpler measures that are approximations of GFR.

These measures, which involve clearance of such substrates as EDTA, iohexol, cystatin C, 125I-iothalamate (sodium radioiothalamate), the chromium radioisotope 51Cr (chelated with EDTA), and creatinine, have had their utility confirmed in large cohorts of patients with chronic kidney disease.

For both Inuline and creatinine, the calculations involve concentrations in the urine and in the serum.
However, unlike creatinine, Inuline is not naturally present in the body.
This is an advantage of Inuline (because the amount infused will be known) and a disadvantage (because an infusion is necessary).

HEALTH BENEFITS OF INULINE:
Inuline is a soluble dietary fiber with positive effects on the gut microbiome.
It is thought to help with regulating fat metabolism and blood sugar, as well as easing constipation and depression, for example.
Plants naturally produce Inuline and use it as an energy source, and it’s found in 36,000 different plant species.
It’s considered a prebiotic and is often added to more and more food products because of its benefits and adaptability.

SOURCES OF INULINE:
Inuline can be found naturally in foods such as:
*Jerusalem artichoke
*chicory root
*onion
*garlic
*barley
*dahlia
With its creamy consistency, Inuline can work as a fat substitute in margarine and salad dressings.
Inuline’s also used to replace some of the flour in baked goods and is often sourced from chicory root and Jerusalem artichoke in particular.

BENEFITS OF INULINE:
Inuline is high in fiber and low in calories.
Inuline also has other health benefits.

***Inuline keeps you full (of fiber)
Fiber is any type of carbohydrate the body can’t digest.
It moves through the intestines intact and continues into the colon to serve as food for the bacteria there.

Fiber has low caloric value, but it’s essential to good health.
The fiber in Inuline is soluble, which means it dissolves in water.

Inuline dissolves in the stomach and then forms a gelatinous substance that:
*slows digestion
*increases fullness
*reduces cholesterol absorption as it passes through the digestive tract

***Inuline promotes digestive health
Your gut contains 15,000–36,000 species of bacteria.
Only a small portion of the bacteria in the body has the potential to be harmful.
Good bacteria provide many health benefits.
Inuline stimulates some of these bacteria to grow.

These bacteria help:
*fend off unwanted pathogens (bad bacteria)
*prevent infection
*stimulate your immune system

Inuline also adds bulk to your stool and increases the frequency of your bowel movements.
You may have more bowel movements, but Inuline slows overall digestion.

This enables your body to better absorb nutrients from the food you eat.
Research suggests Inuline can also enable the body to better absorb calcium.
Calcium creates a stronger skeletal system.

***Inuline controls blood sugar
Inuline slows digestion, including the digestion of carbohydrates.
This allows sugar to be released slowly without spiking, which promotes healthy blood sugar levels.
A 2019 study found that Inuline supplements can improve insulin resistance in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Inuline can act as a potential blood sugar stabilizer when present in your diet over a long period of time.
That said, more research is needed to understand this effect in people living with obesity.
Research suggests these properties make Inuline a good weight management aid.

***Inuline could potentially lower your colon cancer risk
Research shows that consuming certain prebiotics, including Inuline, has an inverse relationship with colon cancer risk.
This suggests that taking Inuline might help reduce your chance of developing this cancer and may even work as a preventive measure.
That said, more studies are needed before any strong claims can be made about the effects of Inuline on colon cancer.

***Inuline may improve depression symptoms
According to 2023 research, certain probiotics – including Inuline – may help reduce the severity of depression and may even help prevent it from developing.
A 2021 randomized controlled trial study also found that Inuline intake can help improve mood in people with obesity who have the Coprococcus bacteria in their gut.

ORIGIN AND HISTORY of INULINE:
Inuline is a natural storage carbohydrate present in more than 36,000 species of plants, including agave, wheat, onion, bananas, garlic, asparagus, Jerusalem artichoke, and chicory.
For these plants, Inuline is used as an energy reserve and for regulating cold resistance.

Because Inuline is soluble in water, it is osmotically active.
Certain plants can change the osmotic potential of their cells by changing the degree of polymerization of Inuline molecules by hydrolysis.
By changing osmotic potential without changing the total amount of carbohydrate, plants can withstand cold and drought during winter periods.

Inuline was discovered in 1804 by German scientist Valentin Rose.
He found "a peculiar substance" from Inula helenium roots by boiling-water extraction.
In the 1920s, J. Irvine used chemical methods such as methylation to study the molecular structure of Inuline, and he designed the isolation method for this new anhydrofructose.

During studies of renal tubules in the 1930s, researchers searched for a substance that could serve as a biomarker that is not reabsorbed or secreted after introduction into tubules.
A. N. Richards introduced Inuline because of its high molecular weight and its resistance to enzymes.
Inuline is used to determine glomerular filtration rate of the kidneys.

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES of INULINE:
Inuline is a heterogeneous collection of fructose polymers.
Inuline consists of chain-terminating glucosyl moieties and a repetitive fructosyl moiety, which are linked by β(2,1) bonds.
The degree of polymerization of standard Inuline ranges from 2 to 60.

After removing the fractions with degree of polymerization lower than 10 during manufacturing process, the remaining product is high-performance Inuline.
Some articles considered the fractions with degree of polymerization lower than 10 as short-chained fructo-oligosaccharides, and only called the longer-chained molecules Inuline.

Without color and odor, Inuline has little impact on sensory characteristics of food products.
Oligofructose has 35% of the sweetness of sucrose, and Inuline's sweetening profile is similar to sugar.
Standard Inuline is slightly sweet, while high-performance Inuline is not.

Inuline's solubility is higher than the classical fibers.
When thoroughly mixed with liquid, Inuline forms a gel and a white creamy structure, which is similar to fat.

Its three-dimensional gel network, consisting of insoluble submicron crystalline Inuline particles, immobilizes a large amount of water, assuring its physical stability.
Inuline can also improve the stability of foams and emulsions.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of INULINE:
Molecular Weight: 586.7
XLogP3-AA: 1.5
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count: 3
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count: 10
Rotatable Bond Count: 9
Exact Mass: 586.32541643
Monoisotopic Mass: 586.32541643
Topological Polar Surface Area: 133 Å²
Heavy Atom Count: 42
Formal Charge: 0
Complexity: 1080
Isotope Atom Count: 0

Defined Atom Stereocenter Count: 10
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count: 3
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count: 0
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count: 1
Compound Is Canonicalized: Yes
Molar Mass: 586.73
Density: 1.1777
Melting Point: 154-155 °C
Boling Point: 642.86°C
Solubility: ethanol
Appearance: White powder

pKa: 12.18±0.70
Storage Condition: 2-8°C
Refractive Index: 1.6260
Physical state: powder
Color: yellow, yellow-orange
Odor: No data available
Melting point/freezing point: No data available
Initial boiling point and boiling range: No data available
Flammability (solid, gas): No data available
Upper/lower flammability or explosive limits: No data available
Flash point: No data available
Autoignition temperature: No data available
Decomposition temperature: No data available
pH: No data available

Viscosity
Viscosity, kinematic: No data available
Viscosity, dynamic: No data available
Water solubility: soluble, clear
Partition coefficient: n-octanol/water: No data available
Vapor pressure: No data available
Density: No data available
Relative density: No data available
Relative vapor density: No data available

Particle characteristics: No data available
Explosive properties: No data available
Oxidizing properties: No data available
Other safety information: No data available
CAS Number: 9005-80-5
EC (EINECS) Number: 232-684-3
Molecular Formula: (C₆H₁₀O₅)ₙ
(polymer of fructose units, typically terminated by one glucose unit)
Molecular Weight: Variable (polymeric)
Common average range: ~3,000 – 10,000 g/mol
Degree of polymerization (DP): typically 2–60+, depending on source and processing

FIRST AID MEASURES of INULINE:
-Description of first-aid measures:
*If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
*In case of eye contact:
Flush eyes with water as a precaution.
*If swallowed:
Rinse mouth with water.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed:
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of INULINE:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Sweep up and shovel.
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of INULINE:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
-Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture:
Nature of decomposition products not known.
-Further information:
No data available

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of INULINE:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
*Skin protection:
Handle with gloves.
Wash and dry hands.
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of INULINE:
-Precautions for safe handling:
*Hygiene measures:
General industrial hygiene practice.
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Store in cool place.
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
*Storage stability:
Recommended storage temperature
2 - 8 °C
*Storage class:
Storage class (TRGS 510): 13: Non Combustible Solids

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of INULINE:
-Reactivity:
No data available
-Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available