The scoop on Inulin

You've may heard of Inulin at some point, but what exactly is it and what does it do? Here’s everything you need to know about this gut-loving powder. 

What is Inulin?

Inulin is a carbohydrate that is naturally present in many vegetables, fruits and cereals. It is metabolised by the human body as a dietary fibre. The great part is, it has a lower calorie count than other carbohydrates as it is not digested or absorbed in the stomach.

Health benefits

Inulin can help your health in very important ways:

• It’s a fantastic prebiotic: Prebiotics work by becoming food for the good bacteria in your gut (such as Bifidobacteria), improving your digestion and overall wellness. Inulin also adds bulk to your stool, helping you become more regular and as a result, happier!

• Assisting weight loss: Inulin can help you to feel fuller for longer, aiding in your weight loss journey. A study carried out by the University of Calgary, found that when overweight and obese adults took 21g of inulin every day, there was a decrease in their hunger hormone levels and an increase in fullness hormone levels.
  
  Inulin may also help you to lose belly fat (this fat is particularly unhealthy because it surrounds the body’s vital organs). This study found that subjects taking an Inulin supplement lost more weight than those taking cellulose, plus they lost more visceral fat.

• Helping to control blood sugar levels: The fiber in Inulin can slow your body's digestion of carbohydrates, which may help to regulate the release of sugar into your bloodstream.

What does Inulin look and taste like?

Inulin is a fine powder which easily dissolves in water. It has a neutral, slightly sweet taste making it a perfect addition in various foods.

How can I add inulin to my diet?

Jerusalem artichokes, leeks, garlic, and onion are moderate sources of Inulin, but not to everyone’s taste. For a really quick and easy way to get the benefits of Inulin, try Pro-life’s chewable Pre-biotic Inulin tablets. Or, you could add up to 10g of Morlife’s Certified Organic or Certified Organic Plus Inulin powder into juices, smoothies, yoghurts, salad dressings and in cooking & baking.