What is the primary function of Resistant Starch once it reaches the large intestine in corms like taro?
It acts as a powerful prebiotic, serving as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria.
Resistant starch, a unique carbohydrate component found in corms like taro, exhibits properties similar to soluble fiber. When consumed, it bypasses digestion in the small intestine and travels intact to the large intestine. In this lower tract, the resistant starch undergoes fermentation by the resident beneficial bacteria, effectively functioning as a prebiotic. This fermentation process is crucial for digestive wellness, as it nourishes and promotes the growth of a thriving community of good gut flora, which is directly linked to improved digestive regularity and overall systemic well-being. This mechanism is separate from how simple starches affect blood sugar, as resistant starch slows down digestion rather than causing a rapid spike.
