Prebiotics: Inulin and Other Oligosaccharides

Abstract The upsurge in our knowledge of the gastrointestinal microbiota and its effects on host physiology in recent years has led to an interest in the influence of prebiotics. The definition of prebiotic is still under deliberation, but one recommendation with a broad, comprehensive scope includes nondigestible compounds, metabolized by and modulating gut microorganisms, with a resultant benefit to host physiology. Inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides are well-established prebiotics. Some other bifidogenic compounds, like β-glucans, isomaltooligosaccharides, xylooligosaccharides, and polyphenols have prebiotic potential, but need more convincing evidence that physiological benefits are associated with their metabolism by the gut microbiota.