Evidence supporting the use of: Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
For the health condition: Crohn's Disease

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Synopsis

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

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are prebiotic fibers that selectively stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria. In the context of Crohn's Disease—a chronic inflammatory bowel disease—there is scientific interest in FOS due to the observed dysbiosis (imbalance) of gut microbiota in affected patients. Several small-scale clinical studies and pilot trials have examined the effects of FOS supplementation in individuals with Crohn's Disease. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Gut (2004) found that FOS increased levels of Bifidobacteria but did not significantly reduce disease activity overall. Other studies have investigated FOS as part of synbiotic formulations (combinations of prebiotics and probiotics), with mixed results regarding inflammation and relapse rates.

Current scientific evidence suggests that while FOS can modulate gut microbiota composition, its impact on Crohn's Disease symptoms, inflammation, or remission rates is limited or inconsistent. Some patients may experience increased gas or bloating, and there is not enough robust, large-scale evidence to recommend FOS as a primary or standalone therapy for Crohn's Disease. However, its use is justified by a plausible mechanism and preliminary data, which is why it receives a moderate evidence rating. FOS is not a traditional remedy for Crohn's Disease, as its use is based on relatively recent scientific insights into the gut microbiome.

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