Nutri-Fructo B-88
Also known as: FOS, prebiotic fructooligosaccharides, scFOS, Nutri-Fructo B-88, Fructooligosaccharides
Overview
Nutri-Fructo B-88 is a commercial form of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a type of prebiotic fiber naturally found in various plants like onions, garlic, and bananas. It is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement to foster a healthy gut microbiome by selectively stimulating the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria, particularly Bifidobacterium species. FOS is characterized by its resistance to digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to reach the colon intact where it is fermented by gut microbiota. This fermentation process yields short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are crucial for maintaining intestinal health and integrity. Research on FOS is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy and safety as a prebiotic.
Benefits
FOS demonstrates a robust prebiotic effect, significantly increasing Bifidobacterium counts in both adults and infants, with a weighted mean difference of 0.579 (95% CI: 0.444–0.714) compared to controls. This bifidogenic effect is considered clinically relevant for gut microbiota modulation. Beyond gut microbiota, FOS may exert immunomodulatory effects, including an increase in activated CTLA4+ CD4+ T cells and FOXP3+ regulatory T cells, as observed in specific populations like hematopoietic cell transplant patients. While adults tend to show a greater increase in beneficial bacteria, FOS is well tolerated across various populations, including immunocompromised individuals. The evidence supporting these benefits is generally moderate to high quality, with systematic reviews confirming consistent effects.
How it works
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are resistant to digestion by human enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, allowing them to pass undigested into the large intestine. Once in the colon, FOS acts as a selective substrate for beneficial gut bacteria, primarily Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species. These bacteria ferment FOS, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate. SCFAs serve as a primary energy source for colonocytes, contribute to the maintenance of gut barrier integrity, and possess anti-inflammatory properties. The immunomodulatory effects of FOS are thought to be mediated by these SCFAs and direct interactions with immune cells within the gut-associated lymphoid tissue.
Side effects
FOS is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating and flatulence. These symptoms are a result of the fermentation process in the colon and are typically transient and dose-dependent, meaning they are more likely to occur at higher doses and often subside as the body adjusts. Uncommon side effects are minimal, with rare reports of intolerance in highly sensitive individuals. Serious adverse events have not been reported in high-quality clinical trials. FOS has no significant reported drug interactions. In specific populations, such as hematopoietic cell transplant patients, FOS has been well tolerated, although oral mucositis may limit intake in some cases.
Dosage
Effective dosages of FOS to achieve bifidogenic effects typically range from 4 to 10 grams per day. The maximum tolerated dose can vary among individuals; in studies involving transplant patients, doses were limited by mucositis but were generally well tolerated up to the studied levels. For sustained modulation of the gut microbiota, consistent daily intake is recommended. The timing of intake is flexible and not critical for efficacy. Since FOS is not digested but fermented in the colon, absorption is not a factor. There are no specific cofactors required to enhance its effects. It is advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase to the desired level to minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort.
FAQs
Is Nutri-Fructo B-88 safe for long-term use?
Yes, FOS is generally considered safe for long-term use, though mild gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating may occur initially.
How soon do benefits appear?
Changes in gut microbiota composition, such as increased Bifidobacterium, can typically be detected within days to weeks of consistent supplementation.
Can it cause gas or bloating?
Yes, especially at higher doses, FOS can cause temporary gas or bloating due to fermentation, but these symptoms usually subside with continued use.
Is it effective in infants?
Yes, FOS is effective in infants, but research indicates that the effects on beneficial bacteria may be more pronounced in adults.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36014803/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 RCTs found that FOS significantly increased Bifidobacterium counts in both adults and infants (WMD 0.579, 95% CI 0.444–0.714), confirming its robust prebiotic effect. It also noted mild gastrointestinal symptoms as common side effects, highlighting the overall safety and efficacy of FOS as a prebiotic.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8556222/ – This Phase I RCT pilot study in hematopoietic cell transplant patients demonstrated that FOS was well tolerated and led to an increase in activated CD4+ T cells and regulatory T cells, suggesting potential immunomodulatory effects. While preliminary due to the small sample size, the study indicated FOS's safety and potential benefits in a vulnerable population.
- https://www.fda.gov/files/food/published/GRAS-Notice-000717--Short-chain-fructo-oligosaccharides.pdf – This FDA GRAS Notice confirms that short-chain fructooligosaccharides are Generally Recognized As Safe for use in food. The review found no significant toxicity in acute or repeat dose studies, providing an authoritative assessment of FOS's safety profile for human consumption.
