What specific component in jicama causes gas and bloating upon fermentation by gut bacteria?

Inulin (a type of fructan)

The primary reason jicama consumption leads to increased gas production and bloating in sensitive individuals is its high concentration of inulin. Inulin is classified as a fructan, which functions as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are not fully digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract; instead, they travel to the large intestine where they serve as food for the beneficial bacteria residing there. The subsequent metabolic process performed by these bacteria—fermentation—results in the production of gas as a byproduct. This rapid fermentation process means the immediate digestive load is significant, especially for those unaccustomed to high amounts of fermentable fiber, leading directly to symptoms like flatulence and abdominal distention.