Why we chose not to add inulin to GI Assist

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What is Inulin?

Inulin is a type of soluble dietary fiber and is commonly used in health foods and greens powders. Inulin is naturally found in a variety of fruits and vegetables including wheat, onions, asparagus, artichokes, and bananas (1). However, inulin found in supplements most commonly comes from chicory roots. People use inulin to help with constipation, weight loss, and diabetes.

Inulin is a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the good bacteria in the gut (2). It is also a fructan, which are chains of fructose molecules. These molecules are linked in such a way that the small intestine cannot break them down. Instead, they travel to the large intestine where the gut bacteria convert inulin into short-chain fatty acids to nourish colon cells. 

Oftentimes, manufacturers add inulin to processed foods to boost the prebiotic content, replace fat, or replace sugar. That is why you may find inulin in many “health foods” like protein bars, yogurts, cereal bars, drinks, and other “healthy” desserts. 

The Trouble with Inulin

Inulin is marketed as a way to improve digestive health. However, for those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or irritable bowel disease (IBD), it can do the exact opposite. Inulin has been identified as a high FODMAP food. FODMAPS are fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, which are short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that the small intestine absorbs poorly. Inulin is a fructan, which contains either an oligosaccharide, polysaccharide, or both (4), and can be problematic for many people with gut issues. This means that inulin takes longer to digest or ferment, which makes it harder for people to identify the cause of their digestive upset (3)

“Amazing product to keep me regular and it relaxes me at night time. No more uncomfortable bloating!!”

-Yoshie J.

Why Protea does not use inulin

When sourcing a prebiotic fiber for our digestive supplement, we chose against using inulin. The reason for a digestive aide is to promote healthy detoxification, digestion, and immune function. Having an ingredient like inulin can cause high levels of distress in some people, most notably those that might be looking for a product to help with already slower digestion or digestive issues. For this reason, we chose to add acacia powder in our gut support supplement GI Assist, instead. 

Acacia powder also has a high soluble fiber content, which provides many health benefits. It supports gut health and digestion as well as improving heart health, blood sugar regulation, and helps with IBS symptoms (5). Acacia fiber is also low FODMAP, so if you are prone to gas and bloating, it may be just the thing for you!

GI Assist is a safe and effective solution to digestion and natural Toxin elimination and was developed to support the body’s natural detoxification process. By supporting intestinal function with an effective high potency probiotic that supports elimination of metabolic by-products and common everyday exposure fostering a healthy digestive system. GI Assist is gentle enough for everyday use to enhance proper digestion.


The contents of this blog should not be taken as medical advice.  It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem-nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician.  Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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