XOS Glossary

Welcome to the Xylooligosaccharide XOS Glossary. Below are key terms related to XOS, its health benefits, and its role in gut health. This glossary is designed to help you better understand the science behind XOS and its applications.

Xylooligosaccharide (XOS)

A natural prebiotic compound derived from plant fibers, XOS is beneficial for gut health. It is commonly extracted from sources like corn cobs and sugarcane bagasse and works by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system.

Prebiotics

Non-digestible food ingredients that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. XOS is a type of prebiotic, helping to balance gut microbiota and improve overall digestive health.

Gut Microbiota

The community of microorganisms living in the human digestive system. XOS supports gut microbiota by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, especially Bifidobacteria.

Bifidobacteria

A group of beneficial bacteria that live in the intestines. XOS encourages the growth of Bifidobacteria, which helps maintain a healthy gut, improve digestion, and boost immunity.

Fermentation

The metabolic process where gut bacteria break down prebiotics like XOS. This fermentation leads to the production of beneficial compounds like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which have positive effects on gut health.

Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)

Molecules produced when gut bacteria ferment prebiotics such as XOS. SCFAs, including butyrate, acetate, and propionate, are essential for gut health, providing anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.

Synbiotics

A combination of prebiotics and probiotics that work together to enhance gut health. XOS is often used in synbiotic supplements to improve the effectiveness of probiotics by providing them with a food source.

Oligosaccharides

A category of carbohydrates composed of a small number of sugar molecules. XOS falls under this category and is known for its ability to stimulate beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Soluble Fiber

A type of dietary fiber that dissolves in water and can be fermented by gut bacteria. XOS is a form of soluble fiber, contributing to improved digestion and gut health.

Functional Prebiotics

Prebiotics like XOS that offer specific health benefits, such as improving digestion and supporting a healthy immune system. XOS is recognized for its targeted effects on promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

Selective Fermentation

A process in which certain prebiotics, like XOS, are only fermented by specific beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacteria. This selective action ensures that harmful bacteria do not thrive.

Non-Digestible Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates that resist digestion in the small intestine but are fermented in the large intestine. XOS is an example of a non-digestible carbohydrate, acting as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria.

Gut-Brain Axis

The communication pathway between the gut microbiota and the brain. A healthy gut, supported by prebiotics like XOS, can positively influence mood and cognitive function through this axis.

FODMAPs

Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols are short-chain carbohydrates that can cause digestive issues. XOS is considered a low-FODMAP prebiotic, making it suitable for individuals with digestive sensitivities.

Immune Modulation

The process by which prebiotics like XOS influence the immune system. XOS can boost immune function by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which play a role in immunity.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The ability of certain substances, including XOS, to reduce inflammation in the body. XOS promotes the production of SCFAs, which have known anti-inflammatory effects in the gut.

Metabolic Health

Refers to the body’s processes of regulating energy and nutrients. XOS can improve metabolic health by aiding in blood sugar control, supporting weight management, and promoting gut health.

Microbiome Diversity

The variety of microbial species in the gut. XOS helps increase microbiome diversity, promoting a balanced and healthy gut ecosystem.

Butyrate Production

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced during the fermentation of prebiotics like XOS. It plays a key role in maintaining gut health and reducing inflammation.

Resistant Starch

A type of starch that resists digestion in the small intestine and is fermented in the large intestine. Similar to XOS, resistant starch supports gut health by serving as food for beneficial bacteria.

Low Glycemic Index

A measure of how food affects blood sugar levels. XOS has a low glycemic index, making it a suitable prebiotic for people looking to manage blood sugar levels.

Bioavailability

Refers to how well a substance is absorbed and used by the body. While XOS is not absorbed in the traditional sense, it is highly bioavailable to gut bacteria, which ferment it for health benefits.

Colonic Fermentation

The breakdown of prebiotics like XOS by bacteria in the colon. This fermentation process produces SCFAs, which support gut health and immune function.

Synbiotic Supplements

Supplements that combine prebiotics like XOS with probiotics to enhance gut health. XOS acts as a food source for probiotics, improving their effectiveness.

Dietary Fiber

The indigestible part of plant foods that supports digestion. XOS acts as a form of dietary fiber, aiding in regular bowel movements and promoting overall gut health.

Lactobacillus

A genus of beneficial bacteria that resides in the human gut. XOS can support the growth of Lactobacillus, further enhancing gut health and digestion.