What foods contain the most inulin? Side effects of inulin. Products with inulin

Inulin Organic substance of natural origin, which, when broken down, forms a proportion of sucrose and some glucose. Basically, natural inulin is found in the root system and tubers of some plants. The isolated substance is a dry white powder and is highly soluble in hot liquid. In industry, inulin is used as a raw material for the production of fructose.

When inulin enters the stomach, it does not undergo splitting - our body does not secrete enzymes for this. The assimilation of this substance occurs only in the large intestine, when intestinal bacteria begin to work. They break down inulin, which promotes additional growth of beneficial bacteria, stimulates intestinal activity and rids the body of toxins. Due to this useful property, inulin is considered to be a prebiotic.

Where is inulin found?

The substance is extracted only from plants - synthetic and animal inulin does not exist! Natural inulin is contained in the composition of about four thousand simple and exotic plants of the family Asteraceae, cereals and bulbs. But the undisputed leaders in the content of this organic matter are chicory and Jerusalem artichoke (earth pear). In these plants, it is contained in a colossal amount - about 20%.

In large quantities, it is present in cereals, and is also found in such plants:

Coltsfoot;
Garlic, onion;
Banana;
Raisin;
Dandelion;
Echinacea;
Elecampane;
Asparagus;
Scorzoner;
Artichoke;
Bluebell, daffodil, dahlia, lily, violet.

The lion's share of inulin is produced in Belgium and Holland. Basically, the polysaccharide is obtained from chicory, although Jerusalem artichoke also contains a large amount of this substance. This is because the chemical molecule of chicory has a longer chain length, and its roots have a more regular shape, which makes it easier to produce.

Harm

Harm of inulin

In most cases, there are no contraindications to the use of this prebiotic. However, the harm of inulin to the body can occur if a person has an individual intolerance to the substance. In any case, before using drugs based on it, the recommendation of a specialist will not be superfluous.

Need to know!

If the polysaccharide was derived exclusively from chicory rhizome, it must be taken with caution. The harm of inulin in this case can be significant. It poses a danger to patients who are diagnosed with such ailments:

Varicose veins;
Spasms and chronic diseases of the respiratory organs;
Haemorrhoids.

It should also be noted that the simultaneous administration of inulin and antibiotics is incompatible. The result may be incomplete absorption of drugs, as well as the occurrence of unwanted side effects. Therefore, a possible combination of medications and food supplements should be consulted with your doctor.

Benefit

The benefits of inulin

After numerous studies and experiments, scientists have proven the enormous benefits of inulin for the body. It has the most pronounced effect on the intestines, having a beneficial effect on its activity and promoting the reproduction of beneficial bifidobacteria. Inulin is also able to quickly lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood glucose, successfully replacing it with natural fructose.

Inulin has a number of effects on the body:

Stimulates human defenses, improves immunity;
Removes toxins, slags, radionuclides and harmful deposits of heavy metals;
Improves lipid metabolism, which leads to noticeable weight loss;
Improves bowel function, prevents stool from accumulating, prevents constipation;
Reduces the likelihood of cancer by several times;
Contributes to the normal absorption of useful vitamins and carbohydrates;
Cleanses the liver.

Inulin in baby food

The intestines of a newborn are absolutely sterile, and his first food, breast milk, during the first months of a baby’s life, forms a normal microflora in it. Only mother's milk contains a balanced amount of vitamins, microelements and useful oligosaccharides, which perform the work of prebiotics, populating the intestines with the necessary bifidobacteria. Over time, breastfeeding is replaced by the usual complementary foods, but the amount of prebiotics in the child's diet should not decrease!

That is why the leading manufacturers of baby food began to enrich their products with a prebiotic - inulin, which helps the baby not only improve digestive functions, but also increase the absorption of magnesium and calcium, which significantly strengthens his fragile skeletal system.

Prebiotic enriched infant formulas are ideal for baby nutrition. They are especially useful for babies who have frequent constipation, flatulence and intestinal dysbacteriosis.

Do not think that inulin in baby food can be harmful, not beneficial. This polysaccharide is included even in hypoallergenic cereals, which pediatricians recommend introducing into the diet of an allergic child, since only the correction of the intestinal microflora contributes to the favorable removal of harmful allergens from the body.

Inulin in cosmetics

Due to its beneficial properties and natural origin, inulin is widely used in cosmetology. It has an exceptionally beneficial effect on the skin, and the benefits of inulin appear from the very first days of using the cosmetic product.

This polysaccharide in the composition of care products has the following effect on the skin:

Improves oxygen metabolism in cells;
Nourishes and moisturizes;
Promotes natural cell regeneration;
Stabilizes the production of collagen;
Aligns the relief of the epidermis;
Smoothes wrinkles;
Eliminates inflammation and roughness.

Inulin is very useful for hair. It effectively nourishes the thin scalp, strengthens weak hair follicles, restores damaged strands. With regular use of products that contain this polysaccharide, there is a noticeable improvement in the condition of the hair. They acquire silkiness, smoothness, their loss stops, the section of the tips stops.

Inulin can be seen in the composition of:

anti-aging creams;
Tonikov;
Kremov;
Caring shampoos and hair conditioners;
bathing gels;
Decorative and children's cosmetics;
Antiperspirants;
Masks, face serums.

In pharmaceutics, inulin is used in the production of dietary supplements that are prescribed for diabetics. However, it should be understood that inulin cannot replace insulin - it only reduces the dangerous level of glucose in the blood and reduces the likelihood of complications to zero.

The polysaccharide is recommended for people with acute and chronic intestinal diseases, dysbacteriosis, gastritis, hepatitis, and bone diseases. Inulin helps to strengthen the immune system and increase the body's resistance to colds.

Inulin is a natural polysaccharide that is completely safe for the body. It is included in the composition of products for daily use, and its content in products for children allows parents to strengthen the weak immunity of their child and bypass many unpleasant diseases. Due to the absolute absence of side effects, the prebiotic is recommended for use by patients with chronic intestinal diseases, the elderly, stress and radiation exposure.

The benefits of inulin have been proven by microbiologists and doctors - this unique prebiotic is not dangerous even with prolonged use. However, before introducing it into the diet, all the features of taking this supplement should be taken into account, and if allergic manifestations are detected, it is better to stop taking the drug.

Inulin refers to polysaccharides of plant origin. Often the substance is confused with insulin, but these are completely different components. What is the difference between inulin and insulin?

In the first case, we are talking about organic matter, the extraction of which is carried out from certain plants.

Insulin is produced by the pancreas in the form of a protein-peptide hormone. The benefits and harms of inulin are well studied. This is an excellent means of regulating metabolic processes, removing toxins and reducing sugar. Read about all the positive and negative properties of the component below.

Composition and principle of operation

Inulin is obtained from plants

What is inulin and does this substance harm the body? It is an organic compound that decomposes during metabolism into 95% fructose and its polymeric short chains. The chemical formula of inulin is C6nH10n+2O5n+1. What is inulin in ? The root crop is a source of this substance, in addition, an excellent substitute for those to whom it is contraindicated.

Enzymes for the breakdown of inulin are not produced in the stomach, so its appearance does not change when it enters the intestines, where it also does not linger for a long time. Despite the fact that it is unabsorbed fructose, which is not for a long time in the body, it manages to absorb toxins, cholesterol, fatty acids, toxic compounds, metabolic products that have not broken down.

In medicine, inulin is considered a prebiotic, the active substances of which contribute to the reproduction of beneficial bacteria. This is the reason for its use in the fight against many diseases associated with a decrease in the body's resistance to bacterial and viral infections.

Maltodextrin is also an effective prebiotic.

Matter properties

Why does the body need inulin? Due to the production of bacteria, it nourishes the intestinal microflora, has a beneficial effect on the digestive tract. With its help, metabolic processes, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism are normalized, and the process of fat burning is accelerated. Due to the immunomodulatory properties of inulin, immunity increases and the general condition of the body improves. Read more about the benefits of the substance for the human body.

Benefit

The benefits of inulin for the body are as follows:

Acceleration of metabolism and strengthening of the immune system;
Increased oxygen metabolism;
Elimination of problems with the functioning of the endocrine system;
Improving the work of the central nervous system;
Aid in the absorption of calcium;
Stabilization of heart rate and heart function;
Normalization of blood sugar levels;
Stimulation of bone tissue growth;
Restoration of liver functions;
Removal of toxins, salts, radionuclides from the body;
Treatment and prevention of dysbacteriosis;
Use in cosmetology to improve the condition of the skin, moisturize it, eliminate fine wrinkles, acne and rashes.

You will learn more about the benefits of inulin from the video:

Inulin for weight loss is also often used. It regulates lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, ensures the establishment of intestinal microflora, suppresses the feeling of hunger. Thanks to these properties, it helps to reduce weight by eliminating body fat.

With weight loss, coenzyme Q10 will also help, due to the anti-aging effect and increased metabolism. Metabolic processes are carried out under its influence faster, which provokes a decrease in body fat and weight loss. Find all the details about coenzyme Q10

Useful properties for children

Beneficial bacteria in the intestines of a newborn baby are practically absent. Together with breast milk, the child receives the necessary nutrients for development and growth. It takes several months for the intestinal microflora to normalize and the necessary enzymes begin to be produced.

In the case of using mixtures or milk, some children experience pain and cramps in the abdomen, flatulence, and belching. In such a situation, it is recommended to include porridge or a mixture with polysaccharides in the diet once a day.
Inulin for children will help achieve the following effects:

Improved digestion;
Proper formation of the spine by strengthening the bone;
Stock of minerals and vitamins for normal development.

Possible harm

The properties of inulin for the body are mostly positive. Harm may be associated with the belonging of the substance to FODMAPs compounds. This is to talk about the possibility of gas formation from inulin and the manifestation of bloating. At the beginning of taking the remedy, pain in the abdominal region, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea may occur. Negative symptoms are manifested due to unaccustomed to plant fiber.

These manifestations pass quickly enough. You can speed up the process with activated charcoal. Another unpleasant reaction is individual intolerance to the substance, but such cases are extremely rare.

Features of the use of funds

Where is inulin found, and what is the daily norm of the substance? It is produced as a dietary supplement in the form of tablets, drops or powders. Reception is carried out within a month. Drops are taken in a teaspoon 4 times a day. Capsules are used once a day for 2-3 pieces, and tablets no more than 10 pieces per day, usually 3-4 times 1-2 tablets. The daily norm is 3-5 g of the substance.

What foods contain inulin? It cannot be of animal or synthetic origin, its extraction is carried out from medicinal plants or certain products. The largest proportion is found in chicory and (up to 20%). There is also a high concentration in, onions, wheat flour,.

You might be interested to know what is pectin? Scientists have long proven that pectin substances are exactly the product that can significantly improve human health. Read more about the substance

Indications

Indications for the use of inulin are as follows:

dysbacteriosis;
gastritis;
pancreatitis;
hepatitis;
bone diseases;
weakened immunity;
ulcers;
cholecystitis;
colitis.

The substance is a prophylactic agent for the formation of malignant tumors, colds. It helps with diarrhea and constipation. It is also useful for hypertension to normalize blood pressure. Can diabetics have inulin? It actively fights against the increased concentration of sugar, prevents the formation of blood clots and clots, removes toxins, toxins and heavy metals. Therefore, in diabetes mellitus, it is not only possible, but often prescribed for the treatment of the disease in the early stages.

Contraindications

Despite the enormous benefits, there are also contraindications to the use of inulin, namely:

Phlebeurysm;
Spasms that have arisen in the organs of the respiratory tract;
Simultaneous administration of antibiotics;
Haemorrhoids;
thrombophlebitis;
Individual intolerance.

Use in cosmetology

The use of inulin in cosmetics has long been considered effective in improving the condition of the skin and hair. It nourishes and moisturizes the skin, smoothes wrinkles, promotes cell regeneration, eliminates inflammation, and stabilizes collagen production. Inulin for hair is necessary to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles to prevent hair loss, restore damaged strands, and make them smooth and silky.

The substance is included in the composition of many care products. It is found in creams, masks, tonics, bathing gels, shampoos and conditioners, antiperspirants. It is also possible to use a powder of a substance or infusions based on it, which are often used for compresses. They help cure acne and refresh the skin.

Since inulin is found in large quantities in Jerusalem artichoke, you can prepare an excellent anti-aging mask from the root crop:

Summing up

Inulin is a natural prebiotic, a complex carbohydrate, the benefits of which for the body are quite significant. First of all, it improves the intestinal microflora, regulates metabolic processes, removes harmful substances from the body. There are practically no side effects from it.

In rare cases, flatulence, nausea, diarrhea, pain in the abdominal region is possible.

Such negative symptoms eventually disappear on their own, they do not cause harm, only discomfort. For their speedy elimination, it is enough to take activated charcoal.

Useful properties of inulin

The substance has a complex healing effect on the body:

it is a natural sweetener that has the ability to normalize glucose levels in liquid tissue. The substance has a positive effect on the absorption of fats and carbohydrates. Due to its effect on glucose metabolism, it is used to prevent diabetes;
removes harmful compounds, slags and toxins from the body. An important property is the resistance to isotopes of heavy metals that enter the intestines in the process of eating low-quality food of animal and vegetable origin. Accelerates the deoxidation of strontium radioisotopes, which is especially important for people from regions with polluted ecology and in big cities;
the body needs it as an auxiliary component that promotes more efficient absorption of calcium and a number of other minerals. Inulin has the ability to prevent the development of bone diseases, strengthening the musculoskeletal system and providing adequate saturation with minerals. Taking inulin-containing dietary supplements during the course increases bone mineral density by 25%;
normalizes the intestinal microflora, increases the number of valuable bifidobacteria, improving digestion. Helps to deal with such phenomena as constipation or intestinal obstruction. It has a positive effect on the course of metabolic processes in the body, increases the body's tendency to lose weight;
strengthens the immune system, increasing the body's resistance to viruses, bacteria and fungi;
reduces the risk of developing tumor processes and tissue degeneration;
fights with excess cholesterol, qualitatively improving the composition of the blood;
regulates the activity of the cardiovascular system, preventing congestion. Reduces the level of triglycerides and phospholipids, preventing the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Improves the absorption of potassium, which affects the composition of the blood. Inulin has the ability to reduce high blood pressure in hypertension;
has a positive effect on the functioning of internal organs, favorably affecting the liver and kidneys. Prevents the development of diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, nephritis, kidney and liver failure;
strengthens and moisturizes the hair, makes the skin of the face softer and toned. Restores water balance in tissues, stimulates keratin synthesis, makes curls soft and even, etc.

Harm and contraindications

Inulin is an organic substance that has minimal harm to human health. The substance can cause the greatest harm in the event of an allergy. Perhaps the appearance of symptoms resembling poisoning, which occurs in case of an exaggeration of the daily norm.

It is not recommended to take inulin in parallel with antibiotic therapy - the component blocks the action of penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenins and other types of drugs.
Carbohydrate is contraindicated in prolapse of the colon and disruption of the respiratory system.
Active supplements with inulin during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be taken only after consulting a doctor. For nursing mothers and children, the dosage is calculated individually.

What contains inulin?

This substance is obtained by processing plants, it has no animal and synthetic analogues. Inulin is contained in more than four thousand different plants, most of the component is present in Compositae, cereals and bulbous products. The leaders in carbohydrate content (more than 20%) are Jerusalem artichoke tubers (earth pear) and chicory grass roots.

In large quantities, the substance is present in such familiar products as:

bananas;
raisin;
onion and garlic;
asparagus;
artichoke;
dandelions;
coltsfoot.

In addition to vegetables, various cereals (buckwheat, wheat, oatmeal) are sources of inulin. There is a carbohydrate as an auxiliary component in chocolate, providing the product with the appropriate taste.

Nutritional supplements

Food supplements with inulin are widely used due to the high value of the substance for humans. Dietary supplements are available in the form of powder and tablets. Preparations saturated with carbohydrates can be purchased at any pharmacy, the most popular manufacturers of dietary supplements and nutritional supplements with inulin are:

Inulin Forte Evalar with calcium stearate and magnesium;
Inulin-Nutrimed (in capsule form);
Nutrilight is a mixture of dietary fiber with inulin;
Milford sucralose with inulin;
Amrita Inulin-M and others.

Each of the products contains a complex of nutrients - their action is aimed at the formation of a healthy intestinal microflora and the relief of certain diseases. Carbohydrate preparations do not contain hormones and are not harmful to health. All supplements have different dosages and indications, and therefore you should read the instructions for use before you start taking a pharmacological product.

Production technology

The production process of inulin is multiphase - its beginning comes from the harvesting and grinding of raw materials. To obtain a substance on an industrial scale, Jerusalem artichoke or chicory is used. The next and most important step is extraction, after which the resulting extract of the substance is thickened. Next, the inulin is precipitated, purified and dried. Each of the stages of production has its own characteristics, requires a technological base and equipment.

Areas of use

food industry

Inulin is one of the key components used in the food industry. Its properties allow the use of the substance as a technological ingredient:

fat simulator. The polysaccharide is included in the composition of products, replacing animal fats with it. This is due to a specific property: the polysaccharide, when interacting with water, is able to create a creamy consistency resembling fat. This property allows you to reduce the calorie content of individual products, while maintaining the natural taste and appearance of fat-free products. A quarter gram of carbohydrate is enough to replace one gram of animal fat;
stabilizer. The polysaccharide forms and maintains the quality and shape of creamy foods. It is added to the composition of mousses, sauces and ice cream;
among the usual foods, inulin can be found in chocolate, pastries, baby food, dairy products, convenience foods.

Drug production

In the pharmaceutical industry, the polysaccharide is used as an active component of dietary supplements aimed at the treatment and prevention of a specific range of diseases.

Most often, the component is included in the composition of means for stabilizing sugar in the body, including in diabetes mellitus (it is not a substitute for insulin).
Inulin supplements are being developed as a therapeutic agent aimed at normalizing the intestinal microflora and increasing the body's barrier properties in case of food poisoning.
These dietary supplements are an effective product against degenerative and dystrophic phenomena in bones and joints.

cosmetic industry

The naturally occurring carbohydrate is a popular choice and can be found in skin care creams, shampoos, shower gels, antiperspirants, masks, and serums. The substance simultaneously acts as a stabilizer and an active component.

The polysaccharide allows you to restore the normal exchange of oxygen in the cells, improve the nutrition of integumentary tissues, and accelerates the regeneration processes in the body.
The tool activates the production of collagen protein, thereby leveling the skin relief, smoothing fine mimic wrinkles. The skin after the use of such products becomes toned and moisturized, and the hair becomes strong and silky.

Incorrect functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is a common problem in the modern world. It is necessary to deal with the elimination of symptoms in time so that there are no serious consequences. And it’s not drugs that will help in this, but inulin, a prebiotic that helps beneficial bacteria multiply and rid the body of toxins.

What is inulin?

Inulin is a polymer of D-fructose, a natural carbohydrate derived from plants. Organic matter belongs to the group of polysaccharides, which are the main sources of energy in food. The tool is sold in a pharmacy, is part of dietary supplements, but many people have no idea what it is about, and ask themselves: inulin, what is it? For some time now, there has been a lot of talk about this substance. The carbohydrate was discovered at the end of the 20th century, and since the 90s, inulin has been actively discussed, legends are made about it. Some people claim that with the help of it they managed to recover from many diseases.

Inulin - chemical composition

Polysaccharides are classified as complex carbohydrates. Sugar that is harmless to diabetics can be provided by inulin, the composition of which is: fructose (95%), glucose (5%) and sucrose to a lesser extent. The last two substances are formed during decay. The isolated polysaccharide appears as a white powder, which is used to produce fructose. Its properties and formula are close to soluble fiber. It dissolves well in water.

Why does the body need inulin?

One of the main features of the substance is that it cannot be affected by the digestive enzymes of the stomach. The polysaccharide freely passes into the intestine, where it becomes a breeding ground for bifidobacteria. Their number is increasing, and there is simply no room left for harmful pathogens. Inulin for the intestines serves a useful service:

speeds up the process of digestion;
improves intestinal motility;
Inulin is also useful - it helps to rid the body of cholesterol and absorb such useful elements as calcium and magnesium.

Where is inulin found?

Organic matter is not found in animal products and is not obtained synthetically. The only source of inulin is herbal ingredients. In plants, it accumulates in the root system and is present in some of them as the main substance. In total, there are more than 4,000 types of sources of this carbohydrate:

vegetables and herbs (exotic and growing in our area);
cereals;
bulbous;
belonging to the family of Compositae plants.

Almost always, related carbohydrates are found along with inulin:

levulin;
pre-inulin;
inulenin.

What foods contain inulin?

Having understood the question of inulin - what it is, it's time to think about "what it is eaten with." To ensure the intake of a prebiotic in the body, you can take it in tablets or in powder form (the product is sold at a pharmacy). You can introduce products containing inulin into the usual diet: Jerusalem artichoke, chicory root, onion and garlic, bananas, barley and rye. You can find a polysaccharide in raisins, asparagus, artichokes.

Natural sweet tasting prebiotic added to yoghurts, low-calorie chocolates and weight loss drinks. You can add inulin powder to pastries, replacing up to 10% of flour, and to confectionery creams. Thanks to the prebiotic, bakery products will turn out to be light, enriched with fiber, and the cream will acquire an indescribable creamy taste.

Prebiotic Plants Containing Inulin

A natural prebiotic that supports the activity of lactobacilli in the intestines is found in many plants. Chicory and Jerusalem artichoke inulin are the undisputed leaders in terms of its content and consumption. In smaller quantities, the prebiotic is found in plants such as:

dandelion;
garlic;
onion;
burdock;
dahlia;
narcissus;
hyacinth;
coltsfoot;
elecampane;
tuberose;
banana;
agave.

The largest percentage of useful polysaccharide in the first two plants. Inulin in chicory is contained in colossal quantities: up to 75% of the substance is extracted from the root during cultivation. In earthen pear tubers, it is less, about 20%, and it is produced for pharmacological development and the food industry. The substance synthesized from Jerusalem artichoke resembles starch and fiber in structure.

Inulin - benefit and harm

Useful properties of inulin are used in medicine and cosmetology. The inclusion in the daily menu of products containing this organic substance, or a prebiotic in a concentrated form, will invariably affect the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and have a beneficial effect on overall health. There are contraindications for the use of the drug, but they are few.

Inulin - benefit

A useful prebiotic is a reliable assistant in cleansing the body of heavy metals and radionuclides.
Regular consumption of it helps to strengthen the immune system and the digestive tract.
The prebiotic has a beneficial effect on bone tissue, stimulating its growth. Bone density will increase by 25% if you regularly take inulin, the benefits for the body of which are invaluable.

In cosmetology, inulin is also used, but what is it for the skin:

Bioadditives and food products with prebiotics have a positive effect on the skin, nourish and moisturize tissues, and improve oxygen metabolism.
Increase the protective properties of skin cells and increase their regeneration.
Preparations with inulin will help get rid of wrinkles, soften rough skin, even out the contour of the face.

Inulin - harm

individual intolerance;
the active substance is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women and children under 12 years of age.

In this case, it is forbidden to take the drug both in nutrition and in cosmetology (masks, creams, lotions, etc.). When the agent is used as a dietary supplement, it is important to consider other factors:

It is important to always remember the dosage. It is not recommended to exceed the daily dose of consumed active carbohydrate, in adults it reaches 5 g per day. An excess of inulin in the body can cause bacterial activity in the intestines, causing flatulence.
Other dangers are low-quality dietary supplements, which include a prebiotic. When buying, you should pay attention to other products of the company, familiarize yourself with the patent and license.

Inulin - use in medicine

With minimal contraindications and a lot of useful properties, natural polysaccharide is an excellent health supplement for everyone without exception. Why do we need inulin:

Prebiotic preparations are prescribed for diabetics (types 1 and 2) as a substitute for starch and sugar.
It is useful for the elderly and people with liver diseases.
Inulin is used for cholelithiasis, anemia, hepatitis B and C, hypertension, obesity, osteoporosis, stomach ulcers.
It is used to eliminate the negative consequences after taking potent medications.

Inulin for weight loss

Positive feedback is left about the drug as an active supplement in the process of losing weight:

Unlike other carbohydrates, it is low in calories (110 kcal per 100 g).
It has irreplaceable properties that promote weight loss (affects the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, reduces insulin levels and reduces appetite).

Why inulin is needed - the consumption of products with a prebiotic will favorably affect the figure, but the result will be noticeable no faster than in a couple of months. Having received an answer to the question, inulin - what it is and what benefits it brings to health, you can make it part of an active or passive diet. Natural prebiotic has a positive effect on the entire body as a whole.

What is inulin?

Inulin - chemical composition

Why does the body need inulin?

speeds up the process of digestion;
improves intestinal motility;
Inulin is also useful - it helps to rid the body of cholesterol and absorb such useful elements as calcium and magnesium.

Where is inulin found?

vegetables and herbs (exotic and growing in our area);
cereals;
bulbous;
belonging to the family of Compositae plants.

Almost always, related carbohydrates are found along with inulin:

levulin;
pre-inulin;
inulenin.

What foods contain inulin?

Prebiotic Plants Containing Inulin

A natural prebiotic that supports the activity of lactobacilli in the intestines is found in many plants. and Jerusalem artichoke are the undisputed leaders in its content and consumption. In smaller quantities, the prebiotic is found in plants such as:

dandelion;
garlic;
onion;
burdock;
dahlia;
narcissus;
hyacinth;
coltsfoot;
elecampane;
tuberose;
banana;
agave.

Inulin - benefit and harm

Inulin - benefit

A useful prebiotic is a reliable assistant in cleansing the body of heavy metals and radionuclides.
Regular consumption of it helps to strengthen the immune system and the digestive tract.
The prebiotic has a beneficial effect on bone tissue, stimulating its growth. Bone density will increase by 25% if you regularly take inulin, the benefits for the body of which are invaluable.

In cosmetology, inulin is also used, but what is it for the skin:

Bioadditives and food products with prebiotics have a positive effect on the skin, nourish and moisturize tissues, and improve oxygen metabolism.
Increase the protective properties of skin cells and increase their regeneration.
Preparations with inulin will help get rid of wrinkles, soften rough skin, even out the contour of the face.

Inulin - harm

individual intolerance;
the active substance is contraindicated in pregnant and lactating women and children under 12 years of age.

It is important to always remember the dosage. It is not recommended to exceed the daily dose of consumed active carbohydrate, in adults it reaches 5 g per day. An excess of inulin in the body can cause bacterial activity in the intestines, causing flatulence.
Other dangers are low-quality dietary supplements, which include a prebiotic. When buying, you should pay attention to other products of the company, familiarize yourself with the patent and license.

Inulin - application in medicine

With minimal contraindications and a lot of useful properties, natural polysaccharide is an excellent health supplement for everyone without exception. Why do we need inulin:

Prebiotic preparations are prescribed for diabetics (types 1 and 2) as a substitute for starch and sugar.
It is useful for the elderly and people with liver diseases.
Inulin is used for cholelithiasis, anemia, hepatitis B and C, hypertension, obesity, osteoporosis, stomach ulcers.
It is used to eliminate the negative consequences after taking potent medications.

Inulin for weight loss

Positive feedback is left about the drug as an active supplement in the process of losing weight:

Unlike other carbohydrates, it is low in calories (110 kcal per 100 g).
It has irreplaceable properties that promote weight loss (affects the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, reduces insulin levels and).