Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Prebiotics are non-digestible food components—typically fibers such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS)—that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. There is a moderate and growing body of scientific evidence supporting their use in the management of Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD), which include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Several studies and clinical trials have investigated prebiotics as an adjunct therapy for IBD, with the rationale being that prebiotics can beneficially modulate the gut microbiota, enhance the production of anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids (such as butyrate), and strengthen the intestinal barrier. Randomized controlled trials have shown that certain prebiotics may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in some IBD patients, though the results are variable and sometimes strain- or fiber-specific. For example, inulin and FOS have been associated with reduced disease activity and improved mucosal healing in some small studies. However, the heterogeneity of prebiotic types, patient populations, and study designs means the evidence is not universally strong or conclusive. Major guidelines recognize the potential benefit but stop short of universally recommending prebiotics, pending further large-scale studies. Overall, while prebiotics are not considered a primary treatment for IBD, there is scientific rationale and moderate evidence for their adjunctive use to support gut health and potentially help manage symptoms in some patients.

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