What non-digestible fibers found in onions serve as fuel for beneficial gut bacteria in the large intestine?
Answer
Inulin and fructooligosaccharides
The health benefits related to the digestive system stem from specific prebiotic components contained within onions. These prebiotics are defined as non-digestible fibers, specifically named as inulin and fructooligosaccharides. These substances successfully travel through the upper digestive tract intact until they reach the large intestine, where they serve as the primary fuel source for the resident beneficial gut bacteria. The subsequent consumption of these prebiotics by the flora results in the production of essential byproducts known as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

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