Typical dose
5-20 grams daily, often divided into 1-2 doses....
Rating
0.0/5
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO) are a mixture of short-chain carbohydrates composed of glucose units linked primarily by α-(1→6) glycosidic bonds, with some α-(1→4) linkages. They are classified as a prebiotic dietary fiber due to their resistance to digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract and selective fermentation by beneficial gut bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli) in the colon. IMOs are typically derived from starch via enzymatic processing and are marketed as a low-calorie, soluble fiber with functional food and supplement applications. They exhibit mild sweetness, low viscosity, and high stability under acidic and high-temperature conditions.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 5-20 grams daily, often divided into 1-2 doses. Often incorporated into foods, beverages, or supplement powders.
- Suggested range
- 5-20 g daily
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Isomalto-oligosaccharides
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
9005-84-9 (for dextrins, general); specific IMO mixtures may have proprietary identifiers.
Physical properties
Typically a white to off-white powder or syrup. Highly soluble in water, low viscosity, mildly sweet taste (about 30-50% sweetness of sucrose), low hygroscopicity, stable under heat and acidic conditions.
How it’s made
Produced industrially from starch (e.g., corn, wheat, tapioca) via enzymatic conversion. Process involves liquefaction of starch with α-amylase, followed by transglucosidase action to create α-(1→6) linkages, yielding a mixture of oligosaccharides (degree of polymerization 2-6). The product is then refined, concentrated, and may be spray-dried to powder.