inulin

noun

in·​u·​lin ˈin-yə-lən 

: a white, mildly sweet, indigestible polysaccharide that occurs chiefly in the roots or tubers of various plants (such as chicory or Jerusalem artichoke), that on hydrolysis yields levulose, and that is used as an additive in low-fat and low-sugar foods to improve the flavor and texture, and as a diagnostic agent in a test for kidney function

Examples of inulin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Although inulin can feed good gut bacteria, Gewirtz says that the byproducts of it (short chain fatty acids) might also help pathogens grow. —Carly Mallenbaum, Axios, 29 Mar. 2025

But the evidence is VERY clear that inulin makes people gassy. —Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2025

Chicory root coffee contains small amounts of a prebiotic compound called inulin. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 18 Mar. 2025

By Jenna Ryu Certain fiber types in isolation, particularly inulin, are also fermented especially rapidly by your gut bugs, which can trigger bloating and gas. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 18 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably from German Inulin, from Latin inula elecampane

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inulin

• calmodulin

Medical Definition

inulin

noun

in·​u·​lin ˈin-yə-lən 

: a white mildly sweet plant polysaccharide that resists digestion in the stomach and small intestine, is extracted commercially especially from the roots and rhizomes of composite plants (as chicory), and is used as a source of levulose, as a diagnostic agent in a test for kidney function, and as a food additive to improve the flavor and texture of low-fat and low-sugar processed foods see oligofructose