What is Inulin?

Fiber is essential in the human diet for health. It cleans out the intestinal tract of problematic substances and toxins that can cause disease. Inulins are a great source of fiber, and are produced by a large variety of plants. These naturally-occurring polysaccahrides are used by some plants as a method to store energy. Polysaccahrides are most commonly found in roots or rhizomes. In other words, these plants do not fall in the starchy or simple carbohydrate category. This nutritional substance can be used to replace sugar, flour, or fat. As such inulins are a soluble fiber, and because it promotes friendly intestinal flora or bacteria, also a prebiotic - a substance which helps to eliminate unwanted toxins from the gut.

Good natural sources of inulin can be found in leeks, bananas, asparagus, onions, garlic, chicory root. You can also purchase inulin as a dietary supplement.

Reasons to make sure your diet includes a regular intake of inulin are as follows:

• Reduces risk of cancer because it aids the intestinal tract by helping to grow beneficial bacteria Eliminates common digestive problems such as IBS and
• Is soothing to digestive tract and can be beneficial to both diarrhea and constipation
• Can help Diabetics take control of their disease more effectively because inulin does not raise blood sugar levels'
• Supports bone health and can reduce the risk of osteoporosis
  

For more information about inulin, visit Body Ecology.