Chicory root fibers: Supporting health during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a transformative time that comes with unique nutritional needs for both mother and baby. Prebiotic fibers like inulin and oligofructose, derived from chicory root, offer a range of benefits that support gut health, digestive comfort, blood sugar management and bone health, making them an excellent addition to the diet of expectant mothers.
Digestive health and comfort
Constipation is a common challenge during pregnancy. Prebiotic chicory root fibers help alleviate this by promoting regular bowel movements and increasing levels of beneficial gut bacteria like bifidobacteria. This shift in the gut microbiota contributes not only to better digestion but also to improved overall well-being.
Supporting calcium absorption and bone health
Adequate calcium intake and absorption are crucial during pregnancy to support both maternal bone health and the skeletal development of the baby. Chicory root fibers enhance calcium absorption in the colon, creating an additional site for nutrient uptake. This helps ensure sufficient calcium for both mother and child, reducing the risk of pregnancy complications and supporting long-term bone health.
Blood sugar management and gestational diabetes
Maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is essential during pregnancy, particularly for managing the risk of gestational diabetes. This condition can lead to complications for both mother and baby, including a higher likelihood of type 2 diabetes for the mother and long-term metabolic issues for the child. Chicory root fibers have been shown to lower blood sugar and insulin responses, making them a valuable tool for managing blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
Immune health
Pregnancy comes with increased demands on the immune system. Research shows that high blood sugar levels can weaken immunity, emphasizing the importance of a low-glycemic diet. Additionally, maintaining a healthy gut offers benefits, as prebiotics like inulin and oligofructose can positively influence immune functions. Supporting both gut health and balanced blood sugar levels during pregnancy may provide an extra layer of immune support during this vital phase.
Suitable and effective for pregnant women
Long-term studies confirm that chicory root fibers are well tolerated during pregnancy, with no adverse effects reported. Moreover, their prebiotic properties enhance gut microbiota balance by increasing beneficial bifidobacteria, further supporting digestive and overall health.
As always, pregnant women should consult with healthcare providers before making significant dietary changes.
Nourishing motherhood
Prebiotic fibers from chicory root, such as inulin and oligofructose, offer benefits for pregnant women. From alleviating constipation and enhancing calcium absorption to supporting blood sugar balance and immunity. Adding these natural fibers to the diet is a simple yet effective way to promote health and well-being for both mother and baby.
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References
Bergmann RL, Haschke-Becher E, Klassen-Wigger P et al. (2008) Supplementation with 200 mg/day docosahexaenoic acid from mid-pregnancy through lactation improves the docosahexaenoic acid status of mothers with a habitually low fish intake and of their infants. Ann Nutr Metab. 52(2):157-66. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2790529/
Holloway L, Moynihan S, Abrams SA et al. (2007) Effects of oligofructose-enriched inulin on intestinal absorption of calcium and magnesium and bone turnover markers in postmenopausal women. Br J Nutr 97(2):365–372. International Osteoporosis Foundation (2019) IOF Compendium of Osteoporosis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17298707/
Kellow NJ, Coughlan MT, Reid CM (2014) Metabolic benefits of dietary prebiotics in human subjects: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. Br J Nutr 111(7):1147–1161. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24230488
Nagy DU, Sándor-Bajusz KA, Bódy B et al. (2022) Effect of chicory-derived inulin-type fructans on abundance of Bifidobacterium and on bowel function: a systematic review with meta-analyses. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr:1–18. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35833477/
Sheyholislami H, Connor KL (2021) Are Probiotics and Prebiotics Safe for Use during Pregnancy and Lactation? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients Jul 13;13(7):2382. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34371892/