This is not a webinar or course for purchase - this is a module for credit claiming for our 2022 Spring Symposium attendees and cannot be purchased or taken by non-attendees. These sessions are exclusive to our Symposium; however, the topics may be revisited in the future in the form of a webinar or self-study course.

The gastrointestinal microbiome, a collection of trillions of microorganisms within the intestinal tract, has metabolic, immunologic, and protective functions that contribute to human health. Importantly, the composition of the diet impacts both the composition and the functions of the intestinal microbiome. Dietary fibers and prebiotics (i.e., inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides), which the FDA accepts as dietary fibers, are key dietary substrates that affect the intestinal microbiome. Prebiotics, specifically, are substrates that are selectively utilized by host microorganisms, conferring a health benefit, according to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP). Inulin, fructooligosaccharides, and galactooligosaccharides are recognized prebiotics because of the large body of clinical research demonstrating that intestinal microorganisms, such as Bifidobacterium, selectively utilize these fibers, and that they confer health benefits. Health benefits of consuming these prebiotics include not only benefits for gastrointestinal health but also benefits such as weight management, glycemic control, immunomodulation, and bone health. As most of the US population has inadequate fiber consumption, it is important to help your patients and clients identify opportunities to increase prebiotic fiber consumption in their diets to help support their health.