Inulin explained: what it is and where it comes from
Native chicory inulin is extracted from chicory root. EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) says chicory inulin supports normal bowel movements by increasing how often stools are passed, with 12 g daily specified for native chicory inulin. One of the products we reviewed lists inulin, and its label prints 100 mg per serving.
- Amounts EFSA names
- The amount specified for native chicory inulin to support normal bowel movements is 12 g daily.
- In the products we reviewed
- 1, its label prints the amount
What inulin is
- Native chicory inulin is extracted from chicory root.1
- Chicory root is one of the plant sources with the highest concentrations of inulin.1
- Inulin reaches the large intestine largely intact, where bacteria ferment it into short-chain fatty acids, lactate and gases.1
- Chicory inulin supports normal bowel movements by increasing how often stools are passed.1
How much inulin each product gives
EFSA: 12,000 mg per dose
Before you take it
Ask a doctor first
- More frequent bowel movements are beneficial only if they do not result in diarrhea.1
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. A supplement is not a medicine.
The product we reviewed that lists inulin
| Product | Form and serving | Inulin per serving | Our score | Price a bottle | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 ProDentimOral health support | Soft tablets1 tablet | 100 mg | Not ranked | $49 | Check price |
Questions people ask
What is chicory inulin?
Native chicory inulin is a plant ingredient extracted from chicory root. EFSA says chicory root is one of the plant sources with the highest concentrations of inulin.
What does inulin do in the body?
Inulin reaches the large intestine largely intact, according to EFSA. Bacteria there ferment it into short-chain fatty acids, lactate and gases.
How much inulin should I take per day?
EFSA specifies 12 g daily of native chicory inulin to support normal bowel movements. That is an amount for this purpose, not a stated daily requirement for adults.
Does inulin cause gas?
Yes, EFSA says bacteria ferment inulin into gases, along with short-chain fatty acids and lactate, in the large intestine.
What should I check before taking chicory inulin?
More frequent bowel movements are beneficial only if they do not result in diarrhea. Ask a clinician before starting inulin.
Which supplement we reviewed contains inulin?
ProDentim is a supplement we reviewed that lists inulin. Its label prints 100 mg per serving of one soft tablet.
Sources
The products, amounts and prices come from each product's label and checkout, as its review shows them. AI drafts our pages from listed sources, figures are checked against them, and we have not tried the products.
- 1EFSA Journal (2015), scientific opinion 3951efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doichecked