From the Guidelines
Raffinose is a type of resistant oligosaccharide, specifically an α-Galactoside, composed of galactose, glucose, and fructose molecules, commonly found in pulses, such as beans, chickpeas, and lentils, with high water solubility and fermentability. According to the study published in Nutrition Research Reviews 1, raffinose is classified as a resistant oligosaccharide, which is a type of dietary fiber that is not fully digested in the small intestine. Some key characteristics of raffinose include:
- High water solubility
- Low viscosity
- High fermentability by gut bacteria
- Found in various plant-based foods, including pulses, whole grains, and some vegetables The fermentation of raffinose by gut bacteria can produce gases, leading to digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas, in some individuals 1. However, raffinose also has potential health benefits as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and supporting digestive health and immune function. Overall, understanding the composition and properties of raffinose is essential for appreciating its role in human nutrition and health, as highlighted in the study by 1.
From the Research
Definition and Composition of Raffinose
- Raffinose is a type of nondigestible oligosaccharide, specifically a trisaccharide composed of galactose, glucose, and fructose molecules 2, 3, 4, 5.
- It is a member of the raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs), which also includes stachyose and verbascose 3, 6, 5.
Occurrence and Sources of Raffinose
- Raffinose is found in various plants, particularly in legumes, and is abundant in vegetables 2, 6, 5.
- It is also used as a food additive and has applications in medicine and cosmetics 3.
Digestion and Absorption of Raffinose
- Raffinose is not digested by human enzymes and reaches the large intestine, where it is fermented by gut microbiota 2, 4.
- The fermentation of raffinose by bifidobacteria and other beneficial microorganisms can produce short-chain fatty acids and other metabolites that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome 3, 6.
Health Benefits and Potential Applications of Raffinose
- Raffinose has been shown to have prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the gut and enhancing immune system function 3, 5.
- It may also have potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain diseases and improving neurological processes, such as memory and mood 3, 5.