Inulin

Inulin is a water-soluble starchy fiber found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs.[1] These include things like wheat, onions, bananas, and asparagus.[2] It is often considered a health food, since it is a form of edible fiber which is not digested in the stomach, but facilitates probiotic (beneficial bacteria) further on in the digestive system. It is a "fructan" which means that it is composed of fructose molecule chains which are linked in a specific way which the body cannot digest.[3]

## Uses[edit]

Inulin seems to reduce triglyceride levels in humans by up to 19% after eight weeks of consuming 10-14 grams daily.[2] Many suggest that it helps with weight loss, if for no other reason because it is a sort of filler with is not easily absorbed by the body.[3] Inulin provides about 1.5 calories per gram, which is a relatively low caloric value.[3]
Some also believe that moderate amounts of inulin help reduce the risk of diabetes. However, they also sometimes say that large quantities could actually cause type 2 diabetes, and therefore recommend deliberate but moderate consumption.[4]

## Sources[edit]

While Inulin is found in many parts of nature, and has been refined for numerous purposes, the following are some particularly good natural sources. (percentages shown by weight)

* Chicory root: 36%-48%[3]
* Jerusalem artichoke: 16%-20%[3]
* Garlic: 9%-16%[3]
* Jicama: 10%-13%[3]
* Yacon root: 7%-8%[3]
* Onions: 1%-8%[3]
* Asparagus: 2%-3%[3]

## References[edit]

1. ↑ https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2016/03/07/inulin-health-benefits.aspx
2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1048/inulin
3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318593.php
4. ↑ https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2016/03/07/inulin-health-benefits.aspx