Inulin: A Soluble Fiber That Aids In Weight Loss And Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Inulin, a type of soluble fiber, is naturally found in some plants. Since it is made up of fructose molecules that are linked together, inulin can’t be digested by our small intestines. It just continues to travel down into the large intestines, where it functions as a prebiotic, or food source for beneficial bacteria that live there.
Inulin, as well as the other prebiotics, are converted by our gut bacteria into short-chain fatty acids which nurture colon cells and provide various other health benefits to our body.
Remarkable Health Benefits Of Inulin
Helps Boost Our Immune System
Helps Promote Weight loss
In a separate study, it was found that people with prediabetes who took inulin for 18 weeks have lost 7.6% of their body weight.
Helps Control Blood Sugar
Researchers of a 2015 study concluded that inulin might help people with prediabetes as it can act as a potential blood-stabilizer when present in our diet for a long period of time.
It Can Potentially Lower Your Cancer Risk
Helps Relieve Constipation
May Improve Mineral Absorption And Bone Health
While taking inulin, it was found that girls and boys aged 9-13 had significantly better calcium absorption and bone health.
Natural Sources of Inulin
A 3.5 oz or 100 grams of the foods listed below contain the following amounts of insulin:
- Onions: 1-8 grams.
- Asparagus: 2-3 grams.
- Chicory root: 36-48 grams.
- Jerusalem artichoke: 16-20 grams.
- Jicama: 10-13 grams.
- Garlic: 9-16 grams.
- Yacon root: 7-8 grams
Inulin can also be found in artichokes, bananas, leeks, dandelion greens, and wild yams.
According to experts, we need to get 30 grams of fiber in our daily diet with at least five coming from inulin or prebiotic foods.
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