A Comprehensive Review on Health Benefits of Fructooligosaccharides

Short-chain carbohydrates are primarily made up of fructose molecules; fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are referred to as prebiotics and are renowned for their potential beneficial effects on health. Since they are inedible fibers, FOS go through the upper digestive tract nearly undisturbed while entering the colon, where they offer food to beneficial gut bacteria, such as Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. This method supports digestive health and improves immunity by maintaining an optimal gut microbiome. Based on studies, through establishing an optimal gut environment, FOS can reduce the risk of several digestive disorders, particularly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). FOS has shown potential for improving metabolic health along with digestive health. They can help regulate weight and reduce the risk of diabetes due to their low caloric content and ability to regulate blood glucose levels. This review will contribute to the development of more focused and effective applications of FOS in health and medicine by identifying the areas of research gaps and suggesting future directions.