Dextrin

Why You Need It

• Digestive Regularity: Helps bulk up stool and improve bowel movement consistency.
• Prebiotic Support: Feeds beneficial gut bacteria (Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli), which boosts immunity.
• Weight Management: Increases feelings of fullness (satiety), helping to curb snacking.
• Blood Sugar Balance: Slows the absorption of glucose, preventing sharp spikes after meals.

Deep Dive

Dextrin acts primarily as a fermentable fiber. Once it reaches your colon, it undergoes fermentation. This process produces Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), like butyrate, which is the primary fuel source for the cells lining your colon. This strengthens the gut barrier and reduces inflammation. Unlike insoluble fiber (like wheat bran), Dextrin is gentle on the stomach, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive digestive systems (IBS) who still need fiber support.

Natural Food Sources

While you can get Dextrin from whole foods, it is chemically bound to starch. The most potent natural sources are cooked and cooled starchy foods (resistant starch) and grains.

| Food | Amount | % DV | |---|---|---| | Barley (Cooked) | 1 Cup | ~3g | | Oats (Raw) | 1/2 Cup | ~2g | | Potato (Cooked/Cooled) | 1 Medium | ~1.5g | | Chickpeas | 1 Cup | ~1.2g | | Wheat Bran | 1/4 Cup | ~1g |

Supplementation

Usage: Most supplements suggest a dosage of 1g to 5g per day. Who should take it: Individuals with low fiber intake, those experiencing irregularity, or people looking to support their gut microbiome without the gas/bloating of inulin or FOS.

Important Note: Start with a low dose (1g) and increase slowly to allow your gut to adjust.