Let’s chat about digestive health and fiber, shall we?

While there are many sources of fiber, there is one in particular that has caught my attention lately, mostly because it is added in a new supplement that has been introduced on the market.

Levan is a type of polysaccharide composed mainly of fructose units linked together. It’s classified as a fructan, a natural polymer of fructose, and is similar to inulin but with a different branching structure. 

Levan is found naturally in various plants and microorganisms and is recognized for its potential health benefits, including acting as a prebiotic that supports beneficial gut bacteria. Here are some of the health-promoting properties of Levan:

1. Supports gut health. Levan is a prebiotic and feeds beneficial gut bacteria (Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli). These specific microbes help maintain a healthy gut barrier, support immune function and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which can reduce inflammation.

2. Improves blood sugar regulation. Levan may help stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and reducing glucose absorption. We love this as it fits nicely into following the Metabolic Efficiency Training concept!

3. Anti-inflammatory effects. Through its effects on the microbiome and SCFA production, levan may contribute to lower systemic inflammation.

While not as widely discussed as inulin or other fibers, levan can be found in these foods and natural sources:

• Honey
• Dandelion root
• Fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchi
• Kefir and kombucha (depending on the bacteria strain used in the starters)
• It is also sometimes added to foods or supplements as prebiotic fiber or thickener. Look for it on labels as fructan, lean-type polysaccharide or prebiotic fiber.

Levan is not as common as other dietary fibers but it is still an interesting prebiotic with potential health benefits. 

Want more help improving your digestive health? Check out my self-study course, “Eliminating GI Distress in Endurance Athletes”. It will change your life!

Or, pick up a copy of my newest edition of “Metabolic Efficiency Training: Teaching the Body to Burn More Fat” book, available in both hard-copy and an electronic version.