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What are Fructo Oligosaccharides (FOS)?

Fructo oligosaccharides - also known as FOS, oligofructose and oligofructan - belong to a class of simple sugars that occur naturally in a wide variety of foods. They are used as an alternative sweetener and to promote digestion.

Fructo oligosaccharides became popular in the 1980s in response to consumer demand for healthier reduced-calorie foods. The term oligosaccharide pertains to a short chain of sugar molecules (in the case of FOS, fructose molecules). Literally speaking, oligo means few and saccharide means sugar.

FOS is extracted from fruits and vegetables such as bananas, onions, chicory root, garlic, asparagus, barley, wheat and leeks. The Jerusalem artichoke has been found to have the highest concentrations of FOS. Pure Bulk's FOS is extracted from chicory root.

Benefits of FOS

FOS are short-chain polysaccharides consisting of D-fructose and D-glucose and provide naturally sweet low-caloric fiber. FOS have sweetness levels around 30 to 50 percent of sucrose and contain less than 2 calories per gram (that is half the calories of regular table sugar, sucrose).

Fructo oligosaccharides remain unaltered even after passing through the human digestive system. When the FOS reach the colon, they are synthesized by the "good" bacteria found there (known as bifidobacteria or bifidus) for growth and multiplication. A healthy population of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract promotes the digestion and absorption of nutrients, detoxification and elimination processes and a strong immune system.

As a prebiotic, FOS functions as a substrate for many beneficial bacteria species in the large intestine and assists in improving overall gastrointestinal tract function and health.

FOS are more soluble than inulins (a separate group of naturally occurring polysaccharides) and are therefore sometimes used as an additive to yogurt and other dairy products.

Purity and Concentration of Fructo Oligosaccharides (FOS)

Purebulk's Fructo Oligosaccharides is a pure product. It contains no fillers, additives or anti-caking agents. FOS is a mixture of oligo and polysaccharides which are composed of fructose units linked together by β(2-1) linkages. Almost every molecule is terminated by a glucose unit. The total number of fructose or glucose units (=degree of polymerization or DP) of chicory (starting material) inulin ranges mainly between 2 - 60 (Average: 10).

Potential Side Effects of FOS

FOS is generally safe but may cause bloating, flatulence and upset stomach in larger quantities (15 grams or more). People who are lactose intolerant may be particularly susceptible to side effects.

Suggested Use of FOS

Individual needs vary. For use as a sweetener or as a dietary supplement, take 750 mg (rounded 1/4 tsp) to 3000 mg (rounded 1 tsp) two to three times daily with meals.

Individual needs may vary. As you can see from the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for FOS here, a serving size of 1/4 teaspoon equals 717 milligrams, so use a slightly rounded 1/4 tsp for a 750 mg serving. Likewise, a level teaspoon equals 2866 milligrams, so a slightly rounded tsp is about 3000 mg (3 grams).

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of FOS

FOS dissolves quickly in water and has about half the sweetness of sugar. Mix with water, a hot beverage or juice and drink. FOS is sometimes blended with high-intensity artificial or natural sweeteners, such as Stevia P.E., to improve sweetness and reduce aftertaste.

How should I store it?

You will receive a resealable bag of this powder. Store in a cool, dry area protected from light. Reseal after each use.

References & Further Research

WebMD: Fiber and Digestion Problems

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.