Gujarat Researchers Use Citrus Peels as Natural Gut Prebiotic

To boost good gut bacteria, Gujarat researchers developed a prebiotic supplement using Kinnow Mandarin peels. They used pectin and a special enzyme to create a powder that supports gut health with just four grams a day. The team plans to launch it in India soon.

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Dr Ravindra Pal Singh said the team chose Kinnow Mandarin because it was readily available near their Punjab research site. They collected 50 kg of peel waste from local fruit vendors in Mauli Baidwan village of Mohali in Punjab , extracted pectin, and converted it into a prebiotic called pectic-oligosaccharide (POS). Tests on a healthy human sample showed it boosted good gut bacteria. Singh added they would have used Nagpur oranges if the study was in Maharashtra.

Why Fruit Peels Are Great for Gut Health

Fruit peels are rich in fiber that acts as a prebiotic, feeding good gut bacteria like lactobacillus. As these bacteria ferment the fiber, they break down polyphenols into forms the body can use. Polyphenols help protect the gut lining and support beneficial bacteria through digestion. This fermentation also produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which improve overall gut and body health. Additionally, the fiber in peels aids digestion and keeps bowel movements regular.

Gut Health Support for Antibiotic Users and Fiber-Restricted Diets

This prebiotic supplement is especially helpful for people who have been on long-term antibiotics and need to rebuild their gut bacteria. It’s also a good option for those who can’t get enough dietary fiber through their regular diet. To make it safe for everyone, including people with diabetes or obesity, researchers removed all glucose from the product. Doctors and dieticians can recommend it to patients who need extra gut support without added sugars.

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