Inulin is a soluble prebiotic fibre from the fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) family. Resistant to gastric digestion, it reaches the colon intact, where it selectively feeds beneficial gut bacteria, notably bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. This prebiotic action supports microbiota balance and digestive comfort.

Inulin is one of the most scientifically studied prebiotic fibres. It stimulates the growth of beneficial colon bacteria through fermentation, producing short-chain fatty acids (butyrate, propionate, acetate) that benefit the intestinal lining, contributing to digestive comfort and regular transit. It also supports satiety through slow fermentation, can help balance blood-sugar levels by slowing carbohydrate absorption, and supports better intestinal absorption of calcium and magnesium.

Now Foods inulin comes from organically grown blue agave, certified by USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified — a double certification guaranteeing the absence of pesticides, GMOs and chemical residues. It is 100% pure, with no excipients or additives, ideal for strict diets and sensitive individuals. Now Foods, an American manufacturer since 1968, guarantees its products to GMP standards with an NPA A-rated certification, offering excellent value compared with inulin powders sold in pharmacies.

Numerous clinical studies have evaluated inulin’s effect on the gut microbiome. Regular consumption of 5 to 10 grams per day significantly increases bifidobacteria populations within two to three weeks, as confirmed by a meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Nutrition. Inulin is also studied for its role in modulating intestinal inflammation, mineral absorption (notably calcium) and blood-sugar control — a functional fibre recognised by EFSA for its effect on intestinal transit at intakes from 12 g/day.

The recommended dose is one teaspoon (about 2.8 g) per day, mixed into a glass of water, juice, yoghurt or a hot drink. The powder is neutral in taste and dissolves easily. Start with a half dose for the first few days to let your gut flora adjust, then increase gradually. Inulin may cause bloating at the start of a course — a sign fermentation is getting underway — which usually settles after about a week. If discomfort persists, reduce the dose. The 227 g tub contains about 81 doses, more than two and a half months of daily use.

Generally well tolerated but may cause bloating or flatulence at the start of a course, particularly at high doses — start gradually. Not recommended for people with severe irritable bowel syndrome (FODMAP-sensitive IBS) without professional advice. Do not exceed 10-15 g per day without supervision.

What’s the difference between inulin and acacia fibre?

Both inulin and acacia fibre are soluble prebiotic fibres, but they ferment differently. Inulin ferments faster and mainly feeds bifidobacteria, while acacia fibre ferments more slowly and is better tolerated by sensitive guts. The two can be combined for a complementary effect.

How long does the 227 g tub last?

The tub contains about 81 doses of 2.8 grams. At one daily dose, it lasts more than two and a half months; at two daily doses (5.6 g/day), about 40 days.

Can inulin be combined with probiotics?

Yes, combining inulin (prebiotic) with probiotics is called a synbiotic — a particularly effective combination, as inulin feeds the probiotic strains to help them establish. Take them together or about 30 minutes apart.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.