by Introduction to Isomalto-oligosaccharide
Isomalto-oligosaccharide, commonly known as IMO, is a prebiotic fiber composed of short chain carbohydrates. As a prebiotic, IMO is not digested or absorbed in the upper parts of the digestive tract like the stomach and small intestine. Instead, it travels intact to the large intestine where it selectively feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
Health Benefits of Ingesting IMO
Promotes Growth of Beneficial Bacteria
When consumed, IMO acts as food for probiotic bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus in the gut. These ‘good’ bacteria thrive and multiply when fed with IMO. As their numbers increase in the intestines, they are able to exert various positive effects on digestive and overall health. Studies show Isomalto-oligosaccharide can significantly boost levels of Bifidobacteria within a short period of regular intake.
Supports Digestive Health
Probiotic bacterial populations play a crucial role in promoting digestive regularity and bowel movements. With its prebiotic properties, IMO nourishes friendly gut flora which then secrete enzymes to aid digestion. They also produce short-chain fatty acids through fermentation that improve gut barrier function and bowel environment. This leads to relief from common digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Strengthens Immune Function
The gut and immune system are closely interlinked. A healthy balance of gut microflora optimized through IMO supports immune defenses. Probiotic bacteria reinforce intestinal barriers and crowd out pathogenic strains. They stimulate immune cells to enhance immune surveillance against infection and disease. Research links IMO supplementation with elevated levels of antibodies and immunoglobulins to aid immune protection.
Reduces Risk of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome
Current evidence links an imbalanced gut microbiome to a higher risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and associated metabolic disorders. As a prebiotic, IMO modulates the gut ecosystem to feature more fat-burning bacterial types over obesity-promoting ones. Studies show it supports weight control and helps reduce weight gain over time. IMO intake may also aid in controlling blood lipid and glucose levels linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome.
Improves Oral Health
Probiotic bacteria ferment IMO to produce metabolic byproducts with dental benefits. Certain strains like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli use them to adhere to tooth surfaces as protective coatings against plaque and decay-causing organisms. IMO enhances remineralization of enamel and helps maintain oral pH balance to naturally prevent tooth decay, gingivitis, and bad breath. Its regular consumption is associated with fewer cavities and reduced risk of dental issues.
Side Effects and Recommended Intake
Being a carbohydrate, excessive amounts of IMO will raise blood sugar levels faster than other fiber. However, moderate servings do not usually cause uncomfortable symptoms. Some individuals may experience minor abdominal pain, bloating, or gas when first incorporating IMO into their diet as the gut adjusts. This effect diminishes with continued use. About 3-10 grams per day is the recommended intake amount from food or supplements. More research is still needed to determine the ideal daily value for IMO’s various health advantages.
Healthy Food Sources of IMO
Bananas – Bananas are a good source of resistant starch that ferments to yield prebiotics like IMO. 100 grams of banana provides up to 1 gram of prebiotic fiber.
Garlic – Garlic is rich in inulin fiber classified as a short-chain fructooligosaccharide or oligosaccharide similar to IMO. It has natural prebiotic activity in the gut.
Leeks and onions – Like garlic, these allium family veggies provide prebiotic fibers like inulin, oligofructose, and oligosaccharides supporting gut and overall health.
Asparagus – A half cup of asparagus contributes around 0.5 grams of prebiotic fiber to nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
Yogurt – Probiotic yogurts containing live cultures produce IMO through fermentation of milk sugar lactose. Choose variants with 3-5 grams of prebiotics per serving.
Supplements – IMO supplements derived from plant sources like chicory root are available as capsules, powders, drinks, etc. They provide 3-10 grams of prebiotic fiber as a GMO-free dietary addition
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
