If you take a look at the ingredients label on our Super Greens powder, you might come across an unfamiliar word: inulin. Just because you may not have heard of inulin before doesn't mean it's not something your body needs. In fact, this potent prebiotic is a huge asset if your goal is great gut health. Here's what you need to know about this biome-boosting fiber.
What Is Inulin?
Inulin is a type of soluble fiber. More specifically, it's a fructan. Fructans are prebiotics, which means they're a type of fiber that feeds beneficial bacteria in your gut. Because of their molecular structure, your small intestines can't break down fructans as they travel through. Instead, they move to your large intestines where they provide food for good bacteria. Consuming inulin is a great way to ensure that your gut balance stays where it should be.
Where Does Inulin Come From?
Inulin comes from many different sources. The most common one you'll find in manufactured foods is from the chicory root. But we're big fans of blue agave inulin. This prebiotic has a naturally sweet flavor. It also has a very low impact on your blood sugar levels. Put them together and you have a natural way to sweeten foods that supports a healthy gut without causing blood sugar spikes.
Why Should I Have Inulin in My Diet?
Prebiotics like inulin have tons of benefits for your health. Here are just a few:
Gut Balance: A well balanced gut reduces your risk of digestive issues. It also increases your overall immunity. Inulin feeds the beneficial bacteria that keep your gut functioning as it should.
Less Constipation: Soluble fibers (like inulin) help keep your digestive system moving efficiently. This greatly reduces your risk of constipation.
Better Bone Density: So this is interesting - the FDA did a review of the research related to fructans. When they did, they found that they can help improve your bone density and support your body in absorbing calcium. If you're looking for a little bedtime reading, you can check this report.
Better Control of Diabetes: Controlling your blood sugar may be a little easier if you add inulin to the mix. Studies on people with diabetes and prediabetes suggest that certain types of inulin can help reduce insulin resistance.
Where Can I Get Inulin?
Fortunately for anyone who likes the idea of a healthy gut, inulin is easy to find. In fact, you'll find it in most fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Eat plenty of wheat, bananas, leeks, and asparagus to get your daily dose.
You'll also find blue agave inulin and plenty of other gut-friendly compounds in our Super Greens powder. Besides inulin, these powders have plenty of other probiotics, enzymes, and nutrients, making them an efficient way to keep your gut, as well as the rest of you, happy and healthy.