Study Backs Prebiotic Effect of VitaFiber
In a four-week study, the inulin and FOS alternative bumped friendly-bacteria counts in humans.
BioNeutra Inc. (Edmonton, AB, Canada) has announced the results of a yet-to-be-published study on its VitaFiber prebiotic ingredient.
VitaFiber is an isomalto-oligosaccharide prebiotic fiber produced from crop starches.
The human clinical trial, conducted by KGK Synergize (London, ON, Canada), assigned 30 subjects to VitaFiber (as a low dose or high dose) or placebo (dextrose) for four weeks.
Compared to placebo, both doses of VitaFiber selectively stimulated beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species. A low dose of the ingredient improved stool consistency, reduced diarrhea incidence, and reduced stomach rumbling, compared to a high dose or placebo.
On top of the prebiotic effect confirmed in this study, BioNeutra says its ingredient can also be used as a low-calorie sweetener fit for gluten-free and sugar-free formulations.
