Supplementation forms

They are available on the market mainly as soluble powders in baby formulas, dairy products or beverages, and in capsules and tablets.

Physiological functions

scFOS act as rapidly fermenting prebiotic fiber that reaches the colon intact, where it is used selectively by beneficial bacteria (bifidobacteria and, to a lesser extent, lactobacilli). This bifidogenic effect promotes an increased abundance of these microorganisms and favorable modulation of the composition of the gut microbiota, contributing to a more balanced colonic environment that is less conducive to the growth of pathogens.

As result of their fermentation, scFOS generate short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that have key functions in gut and systemic health. These SCFAs help maintain the integrity of the epithelial barrier and of the colon, favor differentiation and proper functioning of gut cells, and participate in regulating local inflammation and the immune response.

Regular consumption of scFOS is associated with better digestive function, a more favorable microbiotic profile, and beneficial modulation of inflammatory and metabolic markers in some population groups.

The individual response can vary according to the basal composition of the microbiota, the dose, and the duration of consumption.

Foods

They are present naturally in some vegetables such as garlic, onion, leeks, artichoke, asparagus; unripe bananas; and wheat and other grains.

However, most of the scFOS consumed comes from functional ingredients or enriched foods.

Bibliography

• Health Effects and Sources of Prebiotic Dietary Fiber – PMC
• Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) differentially modifies the in vitro gut microbiota in an age-dependent manner – PMC
• Prebiotics and Gut Health: Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Future Directions – PMC
• The Prebiotic Potential of Inulin-Type Fructans: A Systematic Review – PubMed