Chicory-derived prebiotic fibers increase abundance of gut bacteria says recent systemic review with meta-analyses

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A systemic review with meta-analyses¹ published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition assessed the effects of chicory-derived inulin-type fructans on the abundance of Bifidobacterium in the gut and health outcomes. Included in the review were 50 human intervention studies that totaled 2,495 participants. Results showed that at doses, ranging from 3 grams to 20 grams per day, the abundance of Bifidobacterium significantly increased. Significant bifidogenic effects were observed in healthy individuals and those with health impairments, but not in those with gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, healthy subjects also experienced significant beneficial effects on bowel function parameters.

“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,” commented Anke Sentko, vice president of regulatory affairs and nutrition communication at Beneo, in a press release. Beneo manufacturers prebiotic fibers derived from chicory root, including Orafti Inulin and Oligofructose.

“It yet again shows that integrating chicory root fibers 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," Sentko concludes.

Reference

1. Nagy DU et al. “Effect of chicory-derived inulin-type fructans on abundance of Bifidobacterium and on bowel function: a systematic review with meta-analyses.” Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, Published online on July 14, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2022.2098246