Fruktózoligoszacharidok

Fruktózoligoszacharidok, often abbreviated as FOS, are naturally occurring carbohydrates found in various plants such as onions, garlic, chicory, and asparagus. They are classified as prebiotics, meaning they are non-digestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of a limited number of beneficial bacteria in the colon, thus improving host health. FOS are composed of short chains of fructose molecules linked to a terminal glucose molecule.

The human body cannot digest FOS in the small intestine due to the specific type of glycosidic bonds connecting the fructose units. Consequently, they pass through to the large intestine where they are fermented by beneficial gut bacteria, primarily Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate, propionate, and butyrate, which have been associated with numerous health benefits, including improved gut barrier function, reduced inflammation, and enhanced mineral absorption.

FOS are widely used as a food additive and dietary supplement. They are often incorporated into functional foods, dairy products, and infant formulas to enhance their prebiotic properties. Their mild sweetness also allows them to be used as a low-calorie sugar substitute. While generally considered safe, excessive consumption of FOS can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea in some individuals, particularly those sensitive to fermentable carbohydrates.