A substantial body of evidence links prebiotic fiber with a balanced gut microbe composition and overall health. New human clinical research by a top fiber expert confirms that Taiyo’s Sunfiber, already one of the world’s most extensively studied prebiotic fibers, has significant gut-balancing benefits at 3g and 6g doses.
Published in Applied Microbiology, the University of Minnesota study was conducted by world-renowned fiber expert Joanne Slavin, PhD, RD. Slavin is a prolific researcher whose work has increased our understanding of the relationship between human health and plant-based nutrients, specifically dietary fiber.
“Sunfiber is popular in part because of its efficacy, versatility, ease of use and multiple sought-after certifications. This new research opens the doors to even more formulation possibilities, now that we know Sunfiber’s tremendous potential to promote digestive health even at 3g doses,” comments Taiyo International President Scott Smith.
Dose-response study also reveals new gut health benefits
For this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, researchers sought to determine the dose response effects of Sunfiber (Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum or PHGG) on healthy adults. Each subject completed three 14-day treatment periods with a 2-week washout between each period. Treatments included supplementation with 3g PHGG, 6g PHGG or a placebo.
Researchers observed several highly desirable benefits of Sunfiber:
- Significantly higher Akkermansia levels in the 3g and 6g Sunfiber groups compared with the placebo after 14 days. Increased Akkermansia concentrations in the gut are associated with decreased obesity, type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Akkermansia also tends to be decreased in the presence of IBD and other gastrointestinal conditions, making increases of extremely high interest.
- Significant decreases in Sutterella, which has previously been associated with IBD and inflammation.
- Salivary cortisol numerically decreased in the 6g Sunfiber period, indicating it may positively affect the body’s stress response, but requires further investigation.
- The 6g dose of Sunfiber was found to have the highest percentage of normal stool consistency among the study groups, corroborating Sunfiber’s regularity benefits.
The researchers noted that Sunfiber (PHGG) may work to improve gut microbe balance, while triggering fewer undesirable symptoms due to impact on the gut microbiome.
Observes Taiyo’s functional ingredient expert Derek Timm, PhD, RDN, “This study is meaningful to Taiyo’s customers because it revealed Sunfiber’s significant prebiotic effect at a lower dose than previously demonstrated. Plus, the marked Akkermansia increases represent a new gut health benefit for consumers.”
Sunfiber is suitable for formulation in supplements, food, baked, dairy and beverage
Sunfiber is proven effective by more than 100 clinical studies for digestive health, gut health, glycemic control and satiety, without the typical side effects found with other fibers. It is organic, certified Glyphosate Residue Free, Kosher, Halal, Non-GMO Project Verified, Informed Ingredient, 100% gluten free, National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Quality Seal and is Monash University Low FODMAP Certified™. Plus, it is low calorie and suitable for vegan/vegetarian diets.
Contact us to explore your options for formulating with this news making ingredient.