Galacto-oligosaccharides and galactans (GOS) (GOS)

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) and galactans are non-digestible carbohydrates that function as prebiotics by selectively stimulating the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus (Source: Nutrients, 2017, PMID: 28906458). These molecules are typically produced through the enzymatic conversion of lactose or extracted from plant sources like legumes (Source: Journal of Functional Foods, 2014). In the colon, they undergo fermentation to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are vital for maintaining intestinal barrier integrity and modulating immune responses (Source: Frontiers in Immunology, 2018, PMID: 30108549). While they offer significant health benefits, including improved stool consistency and enhanced mineral absorption, they are also categorized as FODMAPs and can cause gastrointestinal distress in sensitive individuals (Source: Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 2017, PMID: 28420945). Their therapeutic application is primarily focused on gut health, infant nutrition, and the prevention of atopic diseases (Source: British Journal of Nutrition, 2016, PMID: 27126151). Beyond their role as a substrate for bacteria, GOS can also act as decoy receptors that bind to pathogens, preventing their attachment to the intestinal wall (Source: Glycobiology, 2015, PMID: 25351537).

Other names

GalactooligosaccharidesOligogalactoseTrans-galactooligosaccharidesTOSGalactansβ-GOS

Galacto-oligosaccharides and galactans act primarily as prebiotics, escaping digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract to reach the colon, where they are selectively fermented by beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus (Source: Nutrients, 2017, PMID: 28906458). This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which lower luminal pH, provide energy to colonocytes, and modulate systemic immune responses (Source: Frontiers in Immunology, 2018, PMID: 30108549). Additionally, they can act as decoy receptors, binding to pathogenic bacteria and preventing their adhesion to the intestinal epithelium (Source: Glycobiology, 2015, PMID: 25351537).