Highly selective bifidogenic prebiotic at low dose
iXOS® (XOS) preferentially feeds Bifidobacterium species — beneficial bacteria associated with immune function, metabolic health, and reduced gut inflammation — at doses as low as 1g/day. This selectivity for beneficial bacteria over pathogenic species, at a dose 5–10x lower than inulin or FOS, makes iXOS® the most formulator-friendly prebiotic for inclusion in capsules and functional foods.
Gut microbiome diversity and health
Multiple clinical studies confirm XOS supplementation significantly increases Bifidobacterium counts, improves microbiome diversity, reduces pathogenic bacteria ratios, and improves gut transit time. These microbiome improvements translate to better immune function, reduced systemic inflammation, improved metabolic markers, and enhanced short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production.
Metabolic and immune health benefits
XOS fermentation by gut bacteria produces butyrate, propionate, and acetate — short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that feed colonocytes, regulate immune T-cell differentiation, and improve insulin sensitivity. Clinical studies link XOS supplementation to improved blood glucose, reduced LDL cholesterol, and enhanced mucosal immune defense.
Selective Bifidobacterium fermentation and SCFA production
XOS passes undigested to the colon where Bifidobacterium species — possessing specific beta-xylosidase enzymes — selectively ferment it as a preferred substrate. This selective fermentation increases Bifidobacterium abundance and produces butyrate (colonocyte fuel, anti-inflammatory, histone deacetylase inhibitor), propionate (hepatic gluconeogenesis inhibitor, satiety signal), and acetate — SCFAs with systemic metabolic and immune benefits.
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of XOS (1–2.8g/day) effects on gut microbiome composition, Bifidobacterium counts, and metabolic markers.
Healthy adults and metabolic syndrome subjects. Multiple RCTs across dose ranges.
XOS at 1g/day significantly increased Bifidobacterium counts, improved microbiome diversity, reduced fasting blood glucose, and improved lipid profiles vs. placebo. Effects achieved at doses 5–10x lower than inulin or FOS. No significant GI side effects at therapeutic doses.