5 inulin secrets for better health

Good things come in small packages.

In our previous article ranking the best natural sweeteners for syrups, we placed syrups containing the plant fiber inulin as their base ingredient at the top.

Why did we prefer inulin-based syrups? Let's examine it in detail.

Let's look at the example of the Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) - it belongs to the same family as the sunflower, Helianthus.

It can be called a functional food or even a medicinal food. It is beneficial by many criteria.

Its tubers are storehouses of various types of carbohydrates and beneficial substances. Dissertations are written about Jerusalem artichoke, and countless functional food products are made from it because it is extraordinary.

What beneficial substances does Jerusalem artichoke contain for us?

We'll pay special attention to the carbohydrate portion of its components!

This part contains and combines inulin, pectin, hemicellulose, and others, making Jerusalem artichoke a prebiotic food that selectively nourishes "good" gut microbes while suppressing harmful ones.

Inulin is the main carbohydrate in Jerusalem artichoke, and for us, it is a type of dietary fiber.

It is not digested in the upper digestive tract, so it does not cause an increase in blood glucose levels!!!

Our digestive organs lack the necessary enzymes to ferment (digest) inulin, so our specific gut bacteria do this because they have those enzymes.

By fermenting inulin, the bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids from it. All of these acids have beneficial effects on our bodies, and each one is important.

Here are some of the inulin functions:

• promotes the growth of intestinal mucosal cells

• promotes the production of intestinal mucin, a protective gel for the mucous membranes

• serves as an energy source for peripheral tissues

• regulates peristalsis

• positive effect on liver functions

• exhibits anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects on the intestines by regulating the immune response in the gut

• suppresses the development of opportunistic pathogens (E. coli, Clostridia, Salmonella, and others)

• improves the absorption of minerals, particularly magnesium and calcium

Pectin is also a polysaccharide and prebiotic, but it is also an enterosorbent, meaning it has:

• powerful ability to form complexes with heavy metals and radionuclides

• binds and removes excess cholesterol and bile through feces

• swells in water and increases in volume several times, which helps relieve constipation

Hemicellulose is also a polysaccharide, and in the digestive tract, it acts as a soluble fiber, forming gel-like structures:

• helps control weight due to its ability to create a feeling of fullness

• supports regular waste removal, thereby improving gut microflora (leading to improved immunity, better absorption of beneficial substances, and vitamin synthesis)

• regular consumption is associated with a reduced risk of developing certain types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

The main carbohydrates listed above make Jerusalem artichoke valuable for dietary nutrition, especially for people with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels. This is due to its low glycemic index and ability to support a healthy gut microflora.

In cooking, Jerusalem artichoke can be prepared raw or baked. Unlike potatoes, it does not need to be peeled, just thoroughly washed (a soft brush can be used).

Use our cheat sheet below to learn many useful recipes for preparing Jerusalem artichoke.👇

Each mindful small step today will become a giant leap for your well-being tomorrow.

Warm regards,
Kos