International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research (IJVNR) is published by IMR Press from Volume 95 Issue 1 (2025). Previous articles were published by another publisher under a hybrid publishing model, and they are hosted by IMR Press on imrpress.com as a courtesy and upon agreement with Hogrefe.
Effects of inulin on calcium metabolism and bone health
1 Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
2 Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Sanko University, Gaziantep, Turkey
Abstract
Abstract. Inulin, a dietary fibre found in the roots of many plants, has positive effects on health. It is particularly noteworthy due to its positive impact on calcium metabolism. Inulin has significant functions, such as improving calcium absorption through passive diffusion, bolstering calcium absorption via ion exchange and expanding the absorption surface of the colon by stimulating cell growth. In addition, inulin boosts calcium absorption by increasing calcium solubility, stimulating levels of calcium-binding protein expression and increasing useful microorganisms. It increases calbindin levels and stimulates transcellular active calcium transport. An inulin intake of least 8–10 g/day supports calcium absorption and total body bone mineral content/density in adolescents through its known mechanisms of action. It also significantly enhances calcium absorption and improves bone health in postmenopausal women and adult men. Sustained and sufficient inulin supplementation in adults has a positive effect on calcium metabolism and bone mineral density.
Keywords
- bone health
- calcium bone health
- calcium absorption
- calcium balance
- inulin
- inulin-calcium interactionabsorption
- calcium balance
- inulin
- inulin-calcium interaction
