Evidence supporting the use of: Galactooligosaccharides
For the health condition: Allergies (respiratory)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are prebiotic fibers that modulate the gut microbiota, and there is emerging scientific evidence suggesting potential benefits for respiratory allergies, particularly in early life. Several animal and human studies have investigated the effect of GOS supplementation on allergic outcomes, including asthma and allergic rhinitis. The rationale centers around the "gut-lung axis," where changes in gut microbiota composition may influence systemic immune responses and reduce allergic inflammation. A number of infant studies have shown that GOS, sometimes in combination with fructooligosaccharides (FOS), can promote a gut environment rich in bifidobacteria, which is associated with a lower risk of developing atopic dermatitis and possibly respiratory allergies. Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in infants at high risk for allergies found reduced incidences of wheezing and other allergic symptoms with GOS/FOS supplementation. However, results are mixed and most studies focus on prevention rather than treatment. Evidence in older children and adults is more limited and less conclusive. Overall, while there is a plausible scientific mechanism and some supportive data from early-life intervention studies, the evidence is not robust or consistent enough to strongly recommend GOS for respiratory allergy prevention or treatment in general populations. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate (2/5), reflecting promising but not definitive scientific validation.

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Products containing galactooligosaccharides

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