Xylo-Oligosaccharide: The Functional Sugar with Unique Advantages

Xylo-Oligosaccharide, also known as xylo-oligosaccharide, is a functional polymeric sugar composed of 2 to 7 xylose molecules linked by β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. Compared to commonly used oligosaccharides such as soybean oligosaccharides, fructo-oligosaccharides, and isomalt-oligosaccharides, it has unique advantages, notably its ability to selectively promote the proliferation of bifidobacteria. Its bifidogenic effect is 10 to 20 times greater than that of other polymeric sugars.

Unique Properties

• Poor Digestibility

Xylo-Oligosaccharide is resistant to breakdown by human digestive enzymes. Experiments using saliva, gastric juice, pancreatic juice, and small intestinal enzymes indicate that these digestive fluids cannot significantly decompose Xylo-Oligosaccharide, resulting in an energy value close to zero. It does not affect blood glucose levels or increase insulin levels, and it does not contribute to fat deposition. Thus, it can be effectively used in low-calorie foods, catering to those who enjoy sweets but are concerned about diabetes and obesity. This makes it safe for consumption by diabetics, obese individuals, and those with hypoglycemia.

• Stability Under Acid and Heat

Xylo-Oligosaccharide exhibits excellent stability and is resistant to fermentation. Unlike other oligosaccharides, Xylo-Oligosaccharide remains stable even when heated to 100°C in acidic conditions (pH 2.5-7) and does not decompose significantly. In contrast, some functional oligosaccharides may easily break down under acidic conditions, reducing their ability to promote bifidobacteria proliferation.

Health Benefits
The human gut and skin harbor billions of bacteria, with over 400 different species weighing up to two kilograms. Among these are harmful bacteria, known as pathogens, and beneficial bacteria, referred to as probiotics. There are also opportunistic pathogens that can cause illness under certain conditions. The main beneficial bacteria in the human body include lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Scientific research confirms that a large population of probiotics in the gut can help treat conditions such as antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis, constipation, and chronic diarrhea. They also play a role in liver protection, hypertension and arteriosclerosis prevention, anti-aging, lowering serum cholesterol, cancer prevention, and tumor growth inhibition.

Xylo-Oligosaccharide is one of the most effective polymeric sugars for promoting bifidobacteria proliferation, with efficacy nearly 20 times greater than that of other polymeric sugars. Since the human gastrointestinal tract lacks enzymes to hydrolyze Xylo-Oligosaccharide, it can directly reach the large intestine, where it is preferentially utilized by bifidobacteria. This process promotes the proliferation of bifidobacteria while producing various organic acids, which lower intestinal pH and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, thus enabling beneficial bacteria to proliferate in the gut and achieve the aforementioned health benefits. This is the health secret of Xylo-Oligosaccharide.

Food Applications of Xylo-Oligosaccharide

• Low Sugar and Sugar-Free Products: As a substitute sweetener, Xylo-Oligosaccharide is commonly used in low-sugar or sugar-free snacks, beverages, and candies.
• Dairy Products: Adding Xylo-Oligosaccharide to yogurt and cheese can enhance flavor while increasing nutritional value.
• Functional Foods: Many nutritional supplements and health foods incorporate Xylo-Oligosaccharide to enhance their prebiotic function.

Xylo-Oligosaccharide represents a valuable addition to a variety of food products, contributing not only to sweetness but also to overall health and wellness.