Effects of chicory inulin on gut microbiota in healthy adults

Effect of Native Chicory Inulin Supplementation on Rates of Microbial Change Between Individuals

Not applicable Interventional Purdue University · NCT06528041

This study tests whether taking chicory inulin can change the gut bacteria in healthy adults and see how it affects their bowel habits, mood, and appetite.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment52 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexAll
SponsorPurdue University Academic / other
Locations1 site (West Lafayette, Indiana)
Trial IDNCT06528041 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how native chicory inulin affects the gut microbiota of healthy adult volunteers. Participants will undergo a one-week run-in phase to establish baseline data before being assigned to receive either chicory inulin or a maltodextrin placebo. The study aims to determine the rate and persistence of changes in gut microbiota, particularly focusing on the growth of Bifidobacterium, in response to the supplementation. Additionally, it will assess the impact of inulin on bowel habits, mood, and appetite.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged 18-45 with a BMI between 18.5 and 30 and regular bowel movements.

Not a fit: Patients with gastrointestinal diseases, food allergies, or those following a low FODMAP diet may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how prebiotics like chicory inulin can positively influence gut health and overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that inulin-type fructans can stimulate beneficial changes in gut microbiota, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* adults aged 18-45
* BMI \>18.5 - \< 30 kg/m2
* Regular bowel movements (\> 4 days per week)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Self-reported sensitivity to FODMAPs and following a low FODMAP diet ((FODMAPS stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols).
* Self-reported food allergies and sensitivities including gluten, dairy, nuts, soya and lactose etc.
* Self-reported antibiotic treatment in the past 6 months.
* Self-reported history of gastrointestinal disease and/or heart disease, cardiovascular, liver, and respiratory disorders, cancer and/or clinically relevant (pre) diabetes.
* Self-reported to having undergone major surgery of the gastrointestinal tract, with the exception of cholecystectomy and appendectomy.
* Self-reported smoking and/or self-reported drug or alcohol abuse.
* Self-reported history of psychiatric and/or mood disorders including eating disorders.
* Self-reported to be following a restrictive diet (i.e. ketogenic, intermittent fasting).
* Pregnant and lactating women.

Where this trial is running

West Lafayette, Indiana

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions HealthyGut microbiotainulinprebioticsBifidobacterium
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.