Part of
chicory
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Typical dose
Typically 5-15 grams per day, often taken with m...
About this supplement
Oligofructose is a type of soluble dietary fiber composed of short chains of fructose molecules (typically 2-10 units) linked by β(2→1) bonds. It is a subgroup of inulin-type fructans, specifically referring to the shorter-chain fraction. Oligofructose is not digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract and serves as a prebiotic, selectively stimulating the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria (particularly Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli) in the colon. It is fermented in the large intestine, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate, propionate, and butyrate, which have various systemic health effects. It is naturally present in many plants, including chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, onions, garlic, and bananas.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- Typically 5-15 grams per day, often taken with meals. Often started at lower doses to minimize initial gastrointestinal discomfort.
- 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 chicory
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
9004-80-2 (for inulin-type fructans, includes oligofructose)
Physical properties
Typically a white to off-white powder or syrup. Highly soluble in water, sweet taste (about 30-50% the sweetness of sucrose). Hygroscopic. Stable at high temperatures and in acidic conditions.
How it’s made
Primarily produced through partial enzymatic hydrolysis of inulin extracted from chicory root using inulinase enzymes. Can also be synthesized via enzymatic transfructosylation from sucrose using fungal or bacterial fructosyltransferase.