Which two specific compounds found in onions act as prebiotics by fueling beneficial bacteria in the large intestine?
Answer
Inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
The digestive benefits of onions are substantially linked to their unique fiber components which function as prebiotics. These are non-digestible fibers that pass through the upper digestive tract intact. The text explicitly names Inulin and Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) as these compounds present in onions. Once they reach the large intestine, these prebiotics serve as specialized fuel for beneficial gut bacteria. The subsequent fermentation of Inulin and FOS by these bacteria leads to the production of vital Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs), which are essential for gut lining integrity and overall digestive health.

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