What it is
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are short-chain carbohydrates that act as a prebiotic, selectively feeding beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria. They are used to improve digestive comfort and support the integrity of the gut lining.
Supplement · Prebiotic
FOS (Fructooligosaccharides)
5 g · vegan · gluten-free · 30 caps
bloatingindigestionirregular-bowel-movements gutstomach
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How it works
FOS ferments in the colon, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, which nourish colonocytes. This fermentation process also lowers colonic pH, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and promoting the proliferation of beneficial species like Bifidobacteria.
Who should take it
Adults looking to address bloating, indigestion, irregular bowel movements. Particularly relevant for people who prefer a targeted single ingredient and who have ruled out an underlying condition that needs medical care first.
Avoid / careful
Pregnant or nursing women without clinician oversight. People on prescription medication affecting the same pathway should consult a doctor before combining. Side effects are uncommon at recommended doses but mild GI upset can occur when starting.
When to take it
Morning
Noon
Evening
Night
How to take it
With food
Empty stomach
Before food
FAQs
Frequently asked
Can FOS help with constipation?
Yes, by increasing fecal bulk and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that can improve gut motility, FOS can help alleviate constipation.
How does FOS differ from fiber supplements like psyllium?
While both are types of fiber, FOS is a prebiotic that specifically nourishes beneficial bacteria, leading to SCFA production. Psyllium is a soluble fiber that adds bulk and can also be fermented, but its primary action is different.
Is FOS suitable for children?
Dosage and suitability for children should be determined by a pediatrician. This product is formulated for adults.
Research
6 studies · 2010–2024
Evidence grade
ABCD
B · B · emerging-to-moderate human evidence for digestive comfort and gut-barrier integrity
From the blog
Editorial notes
SacredBod's longer take on FOS (Fructooligosaccharides) — context the structured blocks above don't capture.
About FOS (Fructooligosaccharides)
Prebiotic FOS to feed bifidobacteria and calcium uptake.
As part of the Prebiotic category, FOS (Fructooligosaccharides) is included in the SacredBod catalog to support digestive comfort and gut-barrier integrity. See the Mechanism and Research sections above for detail.
Added to your stack.