Isomalto-oligosaccharide
Synopsis of isomalto-oligosaccharide
Isomalto-oligosaccharide (IMO) is a prebiotic dietary fiber made up of short chains of glucose molecules linked primarily by α-1,6-glycosidic bonds. It occurs naturally in small amounts in fermented foods like miso, sake, and soy sauce, but is typically produced commercially from starch sources (like corn or tapioca) using enzymatic processing. IMO is known for being low-calorie, mildly sweet, and resistant to digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract—allowing it to reach the colon where it feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
IMO functions as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of healthy microbes like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which contribute to digestive health, immune modulation, and metabolic balance. It also helps improve bowel regularity, supports gut barrier integrity, and may reduce intestinal inflammation. Additionally, IMO has mild sweetness (about 50–60% as sweet as sugar) and is often used in low-sugar or sugar-free products, including protein bars, fiber supplements, and ketogenic foods.
In some formulations, IMO also serves as a soluble fiber, contributing to satiety, blood sugar control, and reduced cholesterol absorption.
Historical Use
Though IMO itself is a modern food science innovation, its natural precursors—found in traditional fermented Asian foods—have been part of human diets for centuries. These naturally occurring oligosaccharides were consumed as part of fermented soy and rice products, and their beneficial effects on digestion and gut flora were noted long before prebiotics were scientifically defined.
IMO gained prominence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries with advances in carbohydrate chemistry and enzymology, allowing manufacturers to produce purified, food-grade IMOs for commercial use. Its utility as a functional sweetener and prebiotic fiber positioned it as a popular ingredient in the health food and sports nutrition industries, especially in low-carb, high-protein, and digestive wellness products.
Today, IMO is recognized as a versatile, gut-friendly carbohydrate that supports microbiome health and sugar reduction, making it a staple in many functional foods and fiber-enhanced supplements. However, in large amounts, it may cause bloating or gas in sensitive individuals, so dosage should be introduced gradually.
Isomalto-oligosaccharide is used for these health conditions
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
isomalto-oligosaccharide is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Products containing isomalto-oligosaccharide
Nature's Sunshine Stixated
Nature's Sunshine Stomach Comfort (Chewable)
