Understanding prebiotics

Prebiotics such as fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) are an important component of a healthy diet as they promote the growth and/or function of the beneficial bacteria found in the colon.¹ The colon is home to the largest mass of microbial life in the human body.² In healthy people, these microbes live in harmony and play an important role in the digestive and immune systems.^3–5 A large component of this biomass is composed of bacteria.^2,6 These bacteria survive by feeding on the nutrients you eat and help to break down otherwise indigestible foods.^3,4 However, imbalance of these bacterial populations can occur due to poor dietary habits, use of antibiotic medications and infection.⁷ Imbalances in bacterial populations have been implicated in many diseases including irritable bowel disease, arthritis, obesity, and mental illnesses.^7,8 As such, it is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to promote the growth and survival of beneficial bacteria within the gut.

While there are no daily intake recommendations regarding dietary fibre, it has been suggested that as little as 4 g of FOS daily is sufficient to boost the population of beneficial gut bacteria.*^9,10 As such, prebiotics play an important yet indirect role in the maintenance of gut and immune health.

*Overconsumption of FOS (>20 g per day) and other dietary fibres has been associated with side effects including diarrhoea, gas, bloating and stomach cramps.⁸

Ensure Powder is a nutritionally complete, balanced milkshake-style supplement, scientifically formulated to support strength and overall health.¹¹ With 28 essential vitamins and minerals and 2.3 g of FOS per serve, Ensure Powder is an easy and tasty way of supporting your gut and immune health.¹¹ Consider adding Ensure Powder to water, milk or your favourite recipes to boost your daily nutrition.^†‡11