What specific role does the prebiotic fiber inulin play in the digestive tract?
Answer
Feeds beneficial gut bacteria in the large intestine.
Inulin is categorized as a prebiotic fiber, and its defining characteristic is that it is not digested by the small intestine. Instead, it successfully travels through the digestive tract until it reaches the large intestine. Once there, it serves as a crucial food source for the beneficial bacteria residing in the gut microbiome. This action supports the thriving and balance of these helpful microorganisms, which is connected to a wide array of overall health benefits that extend beyond simple digestion. This specific mechanism distinguishes it from many other types of dietary fiber.

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