Chicory Root Fiber in Preventive Eating – A Science Update

Chicory-derived inulin-type fructans are dietary fibers with established prebiotic effects. The specific changes both in composition and/or activity of the gastrointestinal microbiota provide benefits for human health. Since the concept was first defined it has been subject of intensive research, and prebiotic research has continued at a rapid pace with more than 3000 research articles published over the past 5 years. Physiological health benefits of chicoryderived inulin-type fructans, such as the positive modulation of gut microbiota, laxation/bowel function, effects on energy intake and body weight, mineral absorption and bone health have been demonstrated in various human intervention studies. Recent studies conducted as randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials confirm the beneficial effects of on laxation/bowel function in healthy adults as well as in young children. The effect of on the gut microbiota was assessed using next generation sequencing technology. Chicory-derived inulin-type fructans have a selective effect, with specific changes observed for Bifidobacterium, Anaerostipes and Bilophila. Decreased Bilophila, a genus containing known pathobionts, is linked with improved constipation-related quality of life measures and softer stools. Recent studies targeted health outcomes beyond digestive health such as the potential of prebiotic fructans in the management of pediatric overweight and obesity. Prebiotic supplementation resulted in significant improvements in sensations of appetite, reductions in energy intake as well as body weight and fat in overweight children. These recent intervention studies extend the body of evidence on distinct health benefits related to prebiotic chicory root fiber in preventive eating and provide further insights into the fructans-associated prebiotic mechanism.