Actually, the term “oligosaccharide” encompasses carbohydrates that are larger than simple di- or tri-saccharides, but smaller than polysaccharides (greater than 10 units). Isomalto-oligosaccharides or IMO, specifically, are glucose oligomers with α-D-(1,6)-linkages, including among others isomaltose, panose, isomaltotetraose, isomaltopentaose, nigerose, kojibiose, and higher branched oligosaccharides.[1] While human intestinal enzymes readily digest α(1,4)-glycosidic bonds, α(1,6)-linkages are not easily hydrolyzed and exhibit a digestion-resistant property, therefore, partially digest in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Isomalto-oligosaccharides are normal components of the human diet that occur naturally in a number of FEREMTED FOODS, including rice miso, soy sauce, and sake.[2][3][4] Isomaltose one of the α(1,6) linked disaccharide components of IMO, has been identified as a natural constituent of honey.[5] IMO is a sweet-tasting, high-density honey like syrup in appearance which could be spray dried into powder form. IMO is a multifunctional health molecule which exerts positive effects on human digestive health. There are numerous scientific papers available about the role of IMO as prebiotic,[6] least flatulence (i.e., generating least gas),[7] low Glycemic index,[8][9] and Anti-caries Activities.[10] Generally, short chain oligosaccharide, like IMO, which confers prebiotic properties in turn, produced Short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) like acetate, propionate and butyrate[17][18] as end-products of fermentation. These molecules decrease the intra-luminal pH, directly inhibiting the growth and activities of harmful micro-organisms,[19][20] and contribute to stimulation of the growth of Bifidobacteria, which compete with the enteropathogens for nutrients and epithelial adhesion sites. Uses of IMO by infants & children are equally beneficially in term of improved digestive health similarly as observed in the case of elderly population.[21
Posted on: Tue, 25 Jun 2013 19:31:32 +0000
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