Is resistant starch good for your health?

Resistant starch is good for your health and offers several benefits, especially for digestion, metabolism and overall health. Resistant starch is a type of carbohydrate that is not digested in the small intestine and instead passes into the large intestine, where it functions as a prebiotic.

Resistant starch is fermented by gut bacteria to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate. Butyrate is an important energy source for the cells of the colon and can reduce inflammation in the gut.

Resistant starch slows the absorption of glucose, leading to a lower glycemic response after meals.

It increases the feeling of satiety, which can help control calorie intake. Resistant starch provides fewer calories than regular carbohydrates because it is partially processed by fermentation rather than being fully digested.

Resistant starch is found in a variety of foods such as green (unripe) bananas, cooked and cooled potatoes, cooked and cooled rice, legumes such as lentils, chickpeas and beans, whole grains, unprocessed oats and potato starch (as a supplement or ingredient).

Resistant starch is not equally effective for everyone. People with certain digestive conditions, such as severe irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may need to be cautious, as fermentation can cause discomfort. Combine resistant starch with a varied, high-fiber diet for optimal results.

Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464622001645

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-12-20 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024