What’s the Deal with Inulin?
If you've been tuning into my Instagram stories, you've seen me mention inulin many times. Originally, people were seeing the word insulin. But it is completely separate, and has no relation to insulin.
in·u·lin
/ˈinyələn/
noun BIOCHEMISTRY
a complex of sugar present in the roots of various plants and used medically to test kidney function. It is a polysaccharide based on fructose.
Some of the purest forms of inulin come from Jerusalem Artichoke Root. "The Jerusalem artichoke, also known as sunchoke or earth apple, is a type of knobby root vegetable. Beige with bulbous protuberances, Jerusalem artichokes look like a cross between fresh ginger root and a potato. In flavor, they are rich and nutty, with a satisfying sweetness."
Why are people consuming inulin?
Think of inulin as fiber (or fibre for my Europeans.) There's a slew of benefits when it comes to taking it, but some of the most prominent include:
prebiotic improvement of gut health
appetite control
weight loss
substitutes sugar in drinks and baking
reduces bloating & water retention
relieves constipation & irregular bowel movements
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There are a lot of benefits beyond these, but I urge you to do your own research. My biggest push for getting inulin was to improve my gut health because I knew it needed help.
Which inulin am I using?
Several months ago, I was introduced to Ingrid De La Mare-Kenny who is a pioneer when it comes to the world of fiber. She's been educating about fiber for years, and she created her brand Gangster Chic in order to sell this addition into your lifestyle. Her inulin is in a pure form that comes from Jerusalem Artichoke Root (it is the purest on the market) but the best part about this inulin is how easily it dissolves. The innovation milling process makes for higher potency and absorption, but it is a really fine powder which I appreciate since I have tried many powders over the years and it's so nice to have one that doesn't require incessant shaking and stirring to dissolve.
Many people on Instagram asked me why I chose this particular inulin, as there are multiple options and a popular one here in the US. I did research Anthony's inulin, but I will admit that I don't trust products made in the US as much as I do those made in Europe.
How much inulin do you need?
I started with 1/4 of a teaspoon once a day, and I've worked my way up over the last few weeks. After the adjustment period, I typically do 1-2 teaspoons in my coffee and then potentially another 1-2 teaspoons of h20 inulin (especially on work out days.)
Every person's need is going to vary, but my biggest piece of advice is to start slowly. Don't rush into massive amounts of fiber because it will shock your body. In addition, there is a 3-4 week period of adjustment which does come with some bloating. Take it from me, as someone who did not have a lot of fiber in her life, easing into the additional fiber is the key to success.
Is it gluten free?
Indeed it is gluten free. In addition, this inulin is lactose free, wheat free, fish free, yeast free and it is vegetarian and vegan.
Is inulin for you?
With the plethora of benefits when it comes to inulin, from my perspective it seems this would benefit everyone. Read specifics from various articles and do your own research, but after the adjustment period, you should be golden because this will work well for the gut.
Have you ever taken fiber supplements? Would you try inulin?
Comments
I haven’t heard of this but it sounds like it would be beneficial to me since I have developed gut issues! Thanks for sharing, girlie <3
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
wow thanks for sharing this! I have never heard of Inulin before but it sounds like it has great benefits!! might have to try it myself.
I’ve never heard of inulin before, but I’m totally intrigued after reading this post. It’s incredible how many unique fruits and vegetables are out there that most people are totally clueless about – and yet they have incredible health benefits. You’ve inspired me to try this!
I have never heard of inulin before but I would love to learn more and try it. It looks like there are a lot of health benefits.
Interesting read…I’ve never heard of Inulin prior to reading this post. Thanks for putting it on my radar! xoxo, Sarah
I have never heard of this before! sounds very interesting – definitely plan on reading into it more. thanks for sharing!
xo Laura Leigh
https://louellareese.com
I don’t know any of this! Thanks for sharing!
This was so interesting, I have never heard of insulin before. Thanks for sharing all the benefits!
This is such a great blog post! I ordered my Inulin & Chaste Berry on Mother’s Day as a gift to myself. I am so glad you recommended it! It should be here very soon and I’m excited to use it!