Partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG)

Partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) is a soluble dietary fiber derived from the endosperm of the guar bean, composed mainly of galactomannans (mannose backbone with galactose side chains) that has undergone enzymatic hydrolysis to reduce viscosity. PHGG is not digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract, but is selectively fermented by colonic microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, and leading to increased production of health-promoting short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate. PHGG is used as a prebiotic to improve bowel habits in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, and diarrhea, and has secondary benefits on lipid and glucose metabolism, mineral absorption, and potentially other systemic disorders. PHGG is not a receptor, enzyme, or conventional drug target, but acts indirectly by modulating the gut microbiota. Key point: This is not a molecular or receptor target, but a complex dietary fiber exerting therapeutic benefits via prebiotic modulation of the gut environment.

Other names

PHGGpartially hydrolyzed guarhydrolyzed guar gumguar fiber

Fermentation by colonic bacteria leads to increased beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, butyrate-producing species); Increases production of short-chain fatty acids that improve intestinal health; Modulates gut motility and stool consistency via microbiota-mediated mechanisms.