About Resistant Dextrin

Resistant dextrin is a family of low-viscosity, water-soluble dietary fibers derived from starch through processes like pyrolysis and enzymatic treatment. These short-chain glucose polymers are resistant to digestion in the small intestine, functioning as a prebiotic fiber that is fermented in the colon. They are characterized by their high solubility, low caloric value, and minimal impact on food texture, making them a common fortifying agent in foods and beverages.

Official resources

Fact sheets from the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements related to this ingredient group.

At a glance

Suggested daily

No specific RDA. General fiber recommendations for adults are 25-38 grams per day, of which resistant dextrin can contribute.

Max safe daily

No established UL. Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or flatulence.

Approval status

GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) in the US for specific types (e.g., soluble corn fiber, resistant maltodextrin). Approved as a novel food or dietary fiber in other regions (e.g., EU, Japan).

Compare All Forms

3 forms

Compare supplement forms of Resistant Dextrin by absorption quality and what your body actually gets from each:

High Moderate Low
Form Absorption Steps to absorb Notes Action
Pyrodextrin

Soluble prebiotic fiber; supports digestive & metabolic heal...

  • CAS: 9004-53-9 (for dextrins generally; specific pyrodextrin may not have a unique CAS)
  • Label category: hybrid
— — — View →
Resistant Dextrin

Soluble fiber, prebiotic, low-calorie bulking agent

  • CAS: 9004-53-9
  • Label category: Synthetic (Starch derived)
— — — View →
Soluble Corn Fiber (SCF)

Prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health and regularit...

  • CAS: 9004-53-9 (for dextrins generally)
  • Label category: natural
— — — View →

Also appears on labels as

Additional names seen on supplement labels for forms of this ingredient (beyond the main aliases above).

Corn fiber, Fibersol-2, Nutriose, Resistant dextrin, Soluble gluco fiber

Type: Fiber

Category for Fiber ingredients

Watch out for

Possible interactions or cautions — talk to a healthcare provider if unsure.

  • May reduce the absorption rate of some concurrently taken oral medications; it is generally advised to take medications 1-2 hours apart from fiber supplements.

Potential Benefits

Benefits associated with Resistant Dextrin forms:

And 10 more benefits...

Potential Side Effects

Side effects associated with Resistant Dextrin forms:

What does the research say?

Clinical studies support pyrodextrin's role in improving bowel function (increasing fecal bulk and frequency), modulating gut microbiota (increasing Bifidobacteria), and producing beneficial SCFAs. Research indicates potential metabolic benefits, including attenuated postprandial blood glucose and insulin responses, and modest improvements in lipid profiles. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Evidence is robust for its physiological effects as a soluble fiber, though some health claims are supported by moderate evidence.