- Inulin is a prebiotic fibre, food for your good gut bacteria.
- It's found in chicory root, garlic, onions, asparagus and bananas.
- It passes undigested to the colon, where bacteria ferment it.
- Introduce it gradually, too much too fast can cause gas.
What inulin is
Inulin is a type of soluble fibre called a fructan, found naturally in many plants, chicory root is one of the richest sources. Your small intestine can't break it down, so it travels intact to the colon.
How inulin works in the gut
Once in the colon, inulin is fermented by beneficial bacteria, making it a classic prebiotic. In simple terms, it's food for your good gut bugs, helping them thrive. Fermentation also produces short-chain fatty acids, compounds associated with gut health.
Where you find insulin
- Chicory root (a top source)
- Garlic, onions and leeks
- Asparagus and bananas
- Added to many greens powders and gut supplements
A note on starting slow
Because inulin is fermented by bacteria, adding a lot too quickly can cause temporary gas or bloating. Start with a standard serving and let your gut adjust.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is inulin?
Inulin is a prebiotic fibre found naturally in plants like chicory root, garlic and onions. Your body can't digest it, so it travels to the colon where it feeds beneficial gut bacteria. It's commonly added to greens powders and gut supplements.
What does inulin do for your gut?
Inulin acts as a prebiotic, it's fermented by beneficial gut bacteria in the colon, helping them thrive. This fermentation also produces short-chain fatty acids, which are associated with gut health.
What foods contain inulin?
Inulin is found in chicory root (a top source), garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus and bananas. It's also added to many supplements and greens powders as a prebiotic fibre.
Can inulin cause bloating?
Yes, adding too much inulin too quickly can cause temporary gas or bloating because it's fermented by gut bacteria. Starting with a standard serving and increasing gradually usually helps your gut adjust.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Biome Theory is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements, especially if pregnant, nursing or managing a condition.