Highfructan

Highfructan refers to foods or ingredients that contain a high concentration of fructans. Fructans are a type of soluble fiber, a complex carbohydrate composed of chains of fructose molecules. They are naturally found in a variety of plant-based foods. Common sources of fructans include wheat, onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, and artichokes. In some processed foods, fructans, often in the form of inulin or oligofructose derived from chicory root, are added as prebiotics or bulking agents.

The term "highfructan" is frequently encountered in the context of dietary management for individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or other functional gastrointestinal disorders. For these individuals, a diet low in fructans, often referred to as a low-FODMAP diet, can help alleviate symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and altered bowel habits. Therefore, identifying foods as "highfructan" is a way to guide dietary choices for symptom management. It is important to note that while fructans can cause digestive discomfort in some people, they are generally considered beneficial for gut health in the general population, acting as prebiotics that nourish beneficial gut bacteria.