Ocean Spray provided the purified xyloglucans and partially funded the study. If the health benefits of a prebiotic derived from cranberry skins can be established, it could represent a profitable application for a byproduct of the cranberry juice industry. The compound’s potential role in synbiotics—combinations of probiotics and prebiotics—may be particularly noteworthy. Researchers have proposed that formulations could integrate xyloglucans with well-known probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, which are already prevalent in probiotic products like Yakult and various supplements. However, assessing the impact of additional probiotics on gut health can be challenging, as their effects may differ among individuals. In contrast, prebiotics have the capacity to nourish the beneficial bacteria that are already present in the gut, aiding their growth.
The human body hosts trillions of bacteria, collectively referred to as the microbiome, which significantly outnumber other cells. These microorganisms are believed to play a crucial role in health, although scientists remain uncertain about the specific functions of most of them. Emerging research has indicated a connection between an individual’s unique microbiome and various conditions, including obesity, intestinal diseases, and even cancer. While the primary focus of research into gut health products has been on probiotics, the interest in prebiotics is increasing. The demand for products containing prebiotics—such as health drinks, dairy items, infant foods, meats, and baked goods—could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022, according to a report by Global Industry Analysts. In the same vein, this firm projects that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion by that year.
Interestingly, as consumers become more health-conscious, they may also consider the benefits of different dietary supplements, such as magnesium citrate vs calcium citrate. These supplements are often compared for their potential effects on health, particularly in relation to gut function. As the market evolves, both prebiotics and probiotics, along with supplements like magnesium citrate vs calcium citrate, will likely play a pivotal role in enhancing gut health and overall well-being.