Fructo-Oligosaccharides
Other names for Fructo-Oligosaccharides
2.5g fos
chickory fructooligosaccharides
chicory root fructo-oligosaccarides
dahlulin
dahlulin pb
f.o.s.
fos
f.o.s. from jerusalem artichoke
fos prebiotics
fos probiotic complex
fos (short chain) prebiotic
froctooligosaccharides
fructo-oligosaccarides
fructooligosaccharide
fructo-oligosaccharides
fructooligosaccharides
fructooligosaccharides (fos) prebiotic fiber
fructooligosaccharides, natural, powder
fructooligosaccharides powder
fructo-oligosaccharides standardized ext.
fructo-oligosaccharides standardized extract
fructo-oligosaccharides std. ext.
inulin fructooligosaccharide (fos) prebiotic
nutra flora
nutraflora
nutraflora fb p-95
nutra-flora f.o.s
nutraflora fos
nutraflora p-95
nutraflora prebiotic
nutraflora prebiotics
nutraflora scfos
nutraflora scfos prebiotic blend
nutra fos
nutri-fructo b-88
oligofructose
oligofructose complex
oligofructrose
orafti p95
orafti p95 prebiotic
organic fructooligosaccharides
prebiotic fos
prebiotic fructo-oligosaccharides
prebiotic fructooligosaccharides
proprietary fos
sc-fos
scfos
scfos prebiotic blend
scfos prebiotic fiber
short chain fructooligosaccharide
short chain fructooligosaccharides
short-chain fructooligosaccharides
total fructooligosccharides
Synopsis of Fructo-Oligosaccharides
History
Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are naturally occurring carbohydrates found in many fruits and vegetables, such as chicory root, garlic, onion, and bananas. Their use in nutritional and medicinal contexts dates back centuries, albeit sometimes under different names or as part of whole-plant remedies. Traditionally, plants rich in FOS were valued in folk medicine for their digestive benefits. For example, chicory root tea was consumed in Europe and parts of Asia to soothe digestive complaints and promote regularity.
FOS gained attention in the late twentieth century as scientists recognized their unique prebiotic properties—meaning, they serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, particularly Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. This discovery corroborated earlier empirical uses, as people consuming FOS-rich foods often reported improved digestion and a general sense of well-being. In herbal medicine, FOS-containing plants were frequently combined with other botanicals, such as dandelion, burdock, and licorice, to create synergistic remedies targeting gut health, immune support, and detoxification.
Modern applications of FOS extend these traditions. They are now widely included in nutritional supplements, functional foods, and herbal blends designed to support digestive health, enhance nutrient absorption, and promote a balanced microbiome. Research continues to unveil their positive roles in improving calcium absorption, modulating immune responses, and supporting metabolic health. Overall, the historical and contemporary use of fructo-oligosaccharides underscores their valuable contributions to herbal medicine and nutrition, offering gentle, natural support for digestive and overall wellness.
Traditional and scientific validation
Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are short-chain carbohydrates naturally present in various fruits and vegetables, and have gained considerable attention as a functional ingredient in nutritional products. Historically, their use as a dietary component dates back to traditional consumption of foods like onions, garlic, and bananas, which contain FOS. The scientific interest in FOS emerged in the late 20th century, when researchers identified their prebiotic properties—supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.
Numerous clinical studies have explored the health benefits of FOS. Evidence suggests that regular intake of FOS may improve intestinal health by enhancing gut microbiota balance, promoting bowel regularity, and possibly supporting immune function. For example, randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that FOS supplementation can increase fecal Bifidobacteria counts and soften stool consistency, which may aid in alleviating mild constipation. Some studies also indicate potential benefits for calcium absorption and bone health, especially in adolescent and postmenopausal populations.
While these findings are promising, it is important to note that the effects of FOS can vary based on dosage, population, and study design, and not all health claims have been conclusively proven. More large-scale, long-term research is needed to fully validate and understand the broader health impacts of FOS. Nevertheless, FOS remains a valuable ingredient in nutritional products, contributing to gut health and overall well-being, with a strong foundation of scientific interest and ongoing research supporting its use.
Fructo-Oligosaccharides is used for these health conditions
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Crohn's Disease (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Indigestion (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Fructo-Oligosaccharides is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
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