Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO) is a type of prebiotic fiber commonly used to support small intestine health. Scientific evidence indicates that IMO resists digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract, reaching the small intestine largely intact. There, it is partially fermented by gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. Several in vitro and animal studies, as well as a limited number of human trials, suggest that IMO supplementation can favorably modulate the gut microbiome, enhance short-chain fatty acid production, and potentially support intestinal barrier function. These effects are believed to contribute to overall gut health, including the small intestine. However, much of the research focuses on general digestive health and prebiotic effects, rather than direct clinical outcomes specifically targeting the small intestine in humans. While IMO is considered safe and is widely used in functional foods for its fiber content, more robust, large-scale human trials are needed to firmly establish its efficacy for small intestine-specific health outcomes. Nevertheless, the existing scientific literature provides a moderate level of validation for the use of IMO as a prebiotic ingredient that may benefit the small intestine as part of the broader gastrointestinal system.

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