Prebiotic

Inulin

Also known as: Chicory root fiber, Chicory inulin, FOS precursor, Prebiotics

Evidence

Chicory-derived prebiotic fiber that specifically feeds Bifidobacteria and supports gut health.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.

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Daily target & upper limit

28 g / day

Inulin has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:

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Primary uses

Prebiotic
Bifidobacteria food
Gut health
Mineral absorption

How it works

Selectively feeds beneficial bacteria
Increases Bifidobacteria
Ferments to short-chain fatty acids
May enhance mineral absorption

Dosage

Typical range: 5-15g daily, start with 2-3g
Timing: Any time, with food or drinks
With food: Either way
Duration: Ongoing for gut health
Special populations: Those seeking prebiotic support, constipation

Forms

Powder
Capsules
In foods

Safety

Common side effects

Gas
Bloating
Cramping if too much too fast

Contraindications

FODMAP sensitivity
SIBO (may worsen)

Products containing Inulin

Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Inulin on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.

Seed

• PM-02™ Sleep + Restore Supplement

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Known interactions

Evidence notes

Well-studied prebiotic fiber

Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.

Cited research for Inulin

Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention inulin. Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.

Ford et al. (2014)American Journal of Gastroenterology
Efficacy of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics in irritable bowel syndrome and chronic idiopathic constipation: systematic review and meta-analysis

Related in Prebiotic

Microbiome-Modulating Prebiotics (MMP)B

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.