Isomaltooligosaccharide is a multi-functional prebiotic fiber that possesses digestion-resistant properties. The compound works as a sugar substitute as it provides sweetness without being digested and absorbed. With this mechanism, the compound promotes weight loss among overweight and obese individuals.
What is Isomaltooligosaccharide?
The term Isomaltooligosaccharide or IMO refers to a group of naturally-occurring short-chained carbohydrates classified as nondigestive fibers. While it occurs in various food sources, the compound may also be produced under laboratory procedures for commercial uses. As a food additive, Isomaltooligosaccharide is used for food products like protein or fiber bars and diet shakes. Some dietary supplement products also contain relative amounts of Isomaltooligosaccharide as it is said to promote weight loss. The compound has long been used in Japan and China for various purposes. In 2009, the classification of the compound as “generally recognized as safe” from the Food and Drug Administration was received by a Canadian-based company BioNeutra.
When used as a food and dietary supplement additive, the compound Isomaltooligosaccharide is otherwise referred to as Isomaltose, Brachiose, or 6-O-alpha-D-glucopyranosyl-D-glucopyranose. The CAS number of the compound is 499-40-1 and its molecular formula is C12H22O11. Its molecular weight is 342.3 g/mol.
The compound has a pale yellowish to whitish and amorphous powder appearance. It is generally soluble in water and has a gentle taste.
Isomaltooligosaccharide forms and specifications
The compound is included in food and dietary supplement products either in the form of Isomaltooligosaccharide 90% powder or in Isomaltooligosaccharide 90% liquid. The powder form is available for purchase at Nutriavenue, a legitimate ingredient supplier offering services online. When bought in bulk from Nutriavenue, Isomaltooligosaccharide powder is usually packed in paper drums with two layers of poly bags inside. Each drum usually contains 25 kilograms net weight.
Packaging for Isomaltooligosaccharide products may vary depending on the quantity of purchase and the preference of the customer.
Isomaltooligosaccharide food sources
Isomaltooligosaccharide is prevalent in several crops and starch sources. Food containing Isomaltooligosaccharide include cereal crops like corn, wheat, and barley. Rice is also known to contain relative amounts of the compound. Isomaltooligosaccharide may also be found in pulses like lentils and peas. These sources are typically subjected to laboratory procedures to obtain pure Isomaltooligosaccharide.
Isomaltooligosaccharide vs sucrose
Sucrose or table sugar is a disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose. In terms of benefits to individual users, it has long been established that Isomaltooligosaccharide is healthier than sucrose. In one study, it was found that replacing table sugar with Isomaltooligosaccharide has reduced the amount of plaque formation in the teeth. The compound has also reduced the formation of enamel-attacking acids.
It was found, however, that Isomaltooligosaccharide is only 50% as sweet as sucrose.
Isomaltooligosaccharide and IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS is a chronic condition affecting the large intestines. It is characterized by a combination of digestive symptoms such as abdominal cramping, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. Among the treatment options to resolve symptoms of the condition through diet is to limit intake of high quantities of sugar.
According to studies, Isomaltooligosaccharide can be used as an artificial sweetener for patients diagnosed with IBS. This is because the compound has a low glycemic index. The compound is also preferred fructooligosaccharides as it has higher stability and functionality in food and beverages.
Isomaltooligosaccharide and Keto
The Keto diet is generally a carbohydrate-limiting diet to promote ketosis and enhance weight loss. Some studies show that Isomaltooligosaccharide should not be considered a dietary fiber but only as a low glycemic index compound. It is believed, however, that whether the compound can be considered a dietary fiber or a low glycemic index compound, it can work as a component of to Keto diet.
Isomaltooligosaccharide manufacturing process
Generally, Isomaltooligosaccharide is derived from starch obtained from food sources like wheat, rice, potato, and others. Through simple enzymatic hydrolysis, the starch is converted into a maltose-rich syrup which consists, among others, of oligosaccharides with (1,4)-glycosidic bonds. Thereafter, these glycosidic bonds are converted into α(1,6)-glycosidic linkages which creates linkages with glucose moieties. Lastly, Isomaltooligosaccharide is obtained.
Isomaltooligosaccharide Benefits
The following are among the most common benefits of using Isomaltooligosaccharide:
It acts as a dietary fiber
As a potential dietary fiber, it is said that Isomaltooligosaccharide may be useful in protecting the normal flora of the digestive system and prevent the progression and development of irritable bowel syndrome. It may also protect the digestive mucosal lining from inflammation.
It is a low-calorie sweetener
Isomaltooligosaccharide may also be used as a low-calorie sweetener. Hence, it may be used as a sugar substitute to prevent dental carries and risks associated with obesity.
It may promote weight loss
With its digestion-resistant and low glycemic index property, it is believed that Isomaltooligosaccharide may promote weight loss among obese and overweight individuals. The compound is also claimed to promote nutrient absorption, thereby improving overall organ function.
Isomaltooligosaccharide side effects
Isomaltooligosaccharide supplementation is not necessarily associated with side effects when used within the recommended dosage. However, some users have reported the development of side effects like stomach cramping and irritation, as well as diarrhea. This is because the compound is known to have a mild laxative effect. Users who are suffering from digestive tract conditions are advised to consult their physicians before using Isomaltooligosaccharide.
Isomaltooligosaccharide dosage
The Food and Drug Association has recommended the dosage limit for Isomaltooligosaccharide at 30 g per day. Nonetheless, the dosage may vary depending on the individual user’s age, weight, and overall physical condition. Pregnant and lactating women are advised to consult their physicians before using Isomaltooligosaccharide.
Where to buy bulk Isomaltooligosaccharide?
Bulk Isomaltooligosaccharide is available at Nutriavenue.com. Our company is dedicated to providing high-quality products at very affordable prices. For all your ingredient needs, Nutriavenue is the right place to purchase.
Nutriavenue is an FDA-registered ingredient supplier duly recognized and certified by Halal, Kosher, and GMP. We offer many other ingredients including Isomaltooligosaccharide which you may check out when you visit our page.
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