xylooligosaccharide

Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) is a prebiotic functional oligosaccharide composed of 2–7 xylose units linked by β-1,4 glycosidic bonds. It is produced from the xylan fraction of plant fiber and is not digestible by human enzymes. Instead, it selectively stimulates the growth of beneficial gut bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the colon[1][3][5]. XOS has been shown in clinical studies to improve digestive health, regulate blood glucose and lipid levels, enhance immune function, promote mineral absorption (such as calcium), and support overall intestinal microecology[1][3][4][6]. It may also have potential roles in preventing or managing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, chronic hepatitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation/diarrhea management, osteoporosis, pruritus and certain cancers[4][6]. Commercially available since the 1980s (originally developed by Suntory in Japan), XOS is now widely used as a dietary supplement ingredient due to its stability under food processing conditions and efficacy at low doses (typically 1–4 g/day)[1][8].

Brand names

PreticX

Other names

xylo-oligosaccharideXOSxylo oligosaccharide