Benefits
Prebiotic fiber
IMO is fermented by beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthier microbiome and the production of short-chain fatty acids.
Digestive support
As a soluble fiber, it supports regularity and a balanced gut environment.
Low-glycemic sweetness
IMO adds bulk and mild sweetness with a lower glycemic impact than sugar, useful in reduced-sugar products.
Mechanism of action
Selective fermentation
Gut bacteria ferment IMO into short-chain fatty acids that nourish the colon lining and favor beneficial species.
Partial digestion
Only part of IMO is digested for energy, while the rest acts as fermentable fiber, giving it a fiber-and-sweetener dual role.
Clinical trials
Functional profiling of gut microbial and immune responses to an isomalto-oligosaccharide fiber. (Tan et al. 2023, Gut Microbes)
Adults.
The fiber influenced gut microbial and immune profiles consistent with a prebiotic effect; outcome data continue to develop.