Inulin

Complete Ingredient Profile
Ingredient Name & Common Synonyms
Primary Name: Inulin
Common Synonyms: Chicory root fiber, Fructooligosaccharide (FOS), Prebiotic fiber, Inulin-type fructan
Chemical Classification: Soluble dietary fiber, Fructan polymer
Overview
Botanical Family: Asteraceae (Compositae)
Primary Origin: Chicory root (Cichorium intybus), Jerusalem artichoke, agave, garlic, onions
Extraction Method: Hot water extraction followed by purification and spray-drying
Molecular Structure: Fructose polymer with β(2→1) glycosidic bonds, degree of polymerization 2-60 units
Appearance: White to off-white, odorless powder with a mild sweet taste
Benefits & Uses
For Women's Hormonal Health:
- Hormonal Balance Support: Inulin supplementation induced a significant reduction in serum total testosterone concentrations in women with PCOS, helping to address hyperandrogenism
- Insulin Sensitivity: Recent research suggests that prebiotics may improve insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances by modulating the gut microbiota
- Weight Management: Inulin slows digestion, including the digestion of carbohydrates, promoting healthy blood sugar levels
Primary Health Benefits:
- Prebiotic Function: Inulin, as a prebiotic, has an outstanding effect on the regulation of intestinal microbiota via stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria
- Digestive Health: Older adults who consumed 15 g of inulin per day reported less constipation and better digestion
- Metabolic Support: Inulin exhibits excellent health benefits in regulating lipid metabolism and weight loss
Safety & Warnings
General Safety Profile:
Inulin is relatively safe when used appropriately for most healthy adults.
Potential Side Effects:
- Digestive Effects: Common side effects include bloating, flatulence, and possible stomach discomfort, especially when the dosage is too high
- Adaptation Period: These symptoms may gradually decrease as the body adjusts to the inulin supplement
- Individual Sensitivity: If you have a sensitive digestive system or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, start with smaller doses
Important Warnings:
Start with low doses (2-5g) and gradually increase to allow digestive adaptation
Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data
May cause throat irritation in some individuals - this is normal and typically mild
Consult a healthcare provider if you have IBS, Crohn's disease, or other digestive conditions
Recommended Patch-Test Instructions:
Not applicable for oral supplements. For topical applications containing inulin, perform a 48-hour patch test on the inner forearm.
Formulation Tips
Physical Properties:
- pH Range: 5.0-7.0 (neutral in aqueous solution)
- Solubility: Highly soluble in hot water (>10% w/w at 90°C), moderately soluble in cold water
- Stability: Heat-stable up to 120°C, stable in pH range 4-9
Optimal Dosing:
- Therapeutic Range: 5-20g daily for adults
- Orbelli Formula: 1000mg per serving (well within safe tolerance range)
- Tolerance Building: Inulin-type fructans were very well tolerated in clinical studies
Pairing Suggestions:
- Synergistic with: Probiotics, other prebiotics (FOS, GOS), digestive enzymes
- Compatible with: Amino acids, vitamins, minerals in powder formulations
- Avoid with: High-fat ingredients that may slow dissolution
- Best taken: With meals to minimize digestive effects, plenty of water recommended
Scientific References
- Hormonal Balance Study: Inulin‐type fructans improve insulin resistance and hormonal status in women with PCOS - Food Science & Nutrition, 2024
- PCOS Systematic Review: Effectiveness of Prebiotics in Managing Insulin Resistance and Hormonal Imbalance in Women with PCOS - Nutrients, 2024
- General Health Benefits: Inulin: properties and health benefits - Food & Function, 2023
- Safety and Tolerance: Digestive tolerance of inulin-type fructans - British Journal of Nutrition, 2008
- Comprehensive Review: Health Effects and Sources of Prebiotic Dietary Fiber - Current Developments in Nutrition, 2018
Related Orbelli Products
- Women's Hormonal Balance - Features 1000mg Inulin as the primary prebiotic foundation
- Additional product links to be added
Last updated: August 2025 | This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.









