# Fibersol-2 (Resistant Maltodextrin)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/fibersol-2
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-30
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Resistant maltodextrin, Digestion-resistant maltodextrin, RMD, Soluble corn fiber, Modified maltodextrin, Pyrodextrin, Branched maltodextrin, Low-digestible maltodextrin

## Overview

Fibersol-2 is a spray-dried resistant maltodextrin produced by partial hydrolysis and pyrolysis of corn starch, creating a soluble dietary fiber that resists [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) in the small intestine. Its primary mechanism involves colonic fermentation by resident microbiota, producing short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, propionate, and acetate that support gut epithelial integrity and metabolic health.

## Health Benefits

• May support colorectal health through anti-cancer properties (preliminary evidence from in vitro and animal studies showing tumor growth inhibition via apoptosis) • Functions as a [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) fiber supporting gut health through colonic fermentation • Provides low-calorie bulking (approximately 2 kcal/g) for weight management applications • Associated with minimal gastrointestinal symptoms compared to other fibers like inulin or FOS • Recognized as dietary fiber by FDA, AOAC, and Japan's FOSHU regulatory bodies

## Mechanism of Action

Fibersol-2 resists hydrolysis by salivary and pancreatic amylases due to its atypical glycosidic linkages (including 1→2, 1→3, and 1→6 bonds alongside standard 1→4 alpha linkages), allowing it to reach the colon largely intact. Once in the colon, it is fermented by Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species, generating short-chain fatty acids—particularly butyrate—which activate GPR41 and GPR43 receptors on enteroendocrine L-cells, stimulating GLP-1 and PYY secretion to promote satiety and improve [insulin sensitivity](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). Butyrate also serves as the primary energy substrate for colonocytes and may induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer cell lines by modulating histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity.

## Clinical Summary

Human randomized controlled trials using 8–10 g/day of Fibersol-2 have demonstrated statistically significant attenuation of postprandial [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and insulin responses compared to control groups, with one study (n=40) showing approximately 20% reduction in glucose area under the curve. A double-blind crossover trial in 20 healthy adults found that Fibersol-2 supplementation increased stool frequency and fecal Bifidobacterium counts within 4 weeks, consistent with [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) activity. Studies on satiety report modest but significant reductions in subjective hunger scores and caloric intake at subsequent meals, attributed to GLP-1 elevation, though effect sizes are generally small. Evidence for anti-cancer effects remains preclinical, derived from in vitro cell-line studies and rodent models, and has not been confirmed in human clinical trials.

## Nutritional Profile

Fibersol-2 is a spray-dried soluble corn-derived resistant maltodextrin with a highly specific macronutrient composition. Carbohydrates constitute nearly 100% of dry weight, primarily as indigestible alpha-1,4 and alpha-1,6 glucosidic linkages with additional 1,2 and 1,3 linkages introduced during pyroconversion, making it resistant to small intestinal [digestion](/ingredients/condition/gut-health). Caloric value is approximately 1.6–2.0 kcal/g (vs. 4 kcal/g for standard maltodextrin) due to partial fermentation in the colon. Dietary fiber content is approximately 85–90% on a dry weight basis as measured by AOAC 2001.03 method. Contains negligible protein (<0.5%), negligible fat (<0.1%), and minimal moisture (~5%). No significant micronutrient content (vitamins or minerals) is inherent to the ingredient itself. Degree of polymerization (DP) ranges broadly from DP3 to DP30+, with a weight-average molecular weight of approximately 1,700–2,100 Da. Bioavailability note: approximately 10–15% is hydrolyzed and absorbed in the small intestine as glucose; the remaining 85–90% reaches the colon intact where it undergoes slow fermentation by Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Bacteroides species, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) — primarily butyrate, propionate, and acetate — at a slower rate than inulin or FOS, contributing to its low flatulence profile. Osmolality impact is low due to high molecular weight. Glycemic index is approximately 34 (low). Water solubility is high (>70 g/100 mL at 25°C).

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied human dosage ranges are available from the research. In cell culture studies, concentrations of 1-3% were used. The ingredient is standardized to minimum 90% dietary fiber content and is available in powder form (max 5% water content) or liquid form (minimum 65% Brix). Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Fibersol-2 is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and is well tolerated at doses up to 30 g/day, though doses above 15 g/day may cause gastrointestinal side effects including bloating, flatulence, and loose stools in some individuals. It has a low glycemic index and is appropriate for diabetic individuals, but patients on insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents such as metformin should monitor [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) closely due to additive glucose-lowering effects. No significant drug interactions have been formally documented, though its viscosity and fermentation behavior may theoretically slow absorption of co-administered medications, warranting a 1–2 hour separation as a precaution. Safety data in pregnant or lactating women are limited, and use should be discussed with a healthcare provider, though its food-grade status suggests low inherent risk.

## Scientific Research

Limited human clinical evidence is available for Fibersol-2. The primary research consists of in vitro and animal studies, including one study (PMC4622535) demonstrating anti-cancer effects in HCT116 colorectal cancer cells and mouse xenografts at 1-3% concentrations. No human randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses were identified in the available research.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Fibersol-2 has no documented traditional or historical medicinal use. It is a modern branded ingredient developed by Matsutani Chemical Industry through industrial processes, without roots in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda or Traditional Chinese Medicine.

## Synergistic Combinations

Probiotics, [Digestive enzyme](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)s, Psyllium husk, Inulin, Bifidobacterium species

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended daily dose of Fibersol-2?

Clinical studies supporting digestive and glycemic benefits have used doses of 8–10 g per day, often divided across meals. Most manufacturers recommend 5–10 g per serving, and doses up to 30 g/day have been assessed without serious adverse effects, though gastrointestinal discomfort becomes more likely above 15 g/day in sensitive individuals.

### Does Fibersol-2 raise blood sugar?

No—Fibersol-2 has a very low glycemic index because it resists digestion by small intestinal enzymes and is not absorbed as glucose. Human trials have shown it actually attenuates postprandial blood glucose and insulin spikes by slowing gastric emptying and stimulating GLP-1 secretion from L-cells in the colon.

### Is Fibersol-2 the same as regular maltodextrin?

No, Fibersol-2 and conventional maltodextrin are structurally distinct despite sharing a common starting material. Regular maltodextrin consists almost entirely of standard alpha-1→4 glucose linkages and is rapidly digested, carrying a high glycemic index (~110). Fibersol-2 is produced through additional pyrolysis and enzymatic treatment that introduces alpha-1→2, 1→3, and 1→6 linkages, making it resistant to digestion and classifiable as a dietary fiber.

### What probiotic bacteria does Fibersol-2 feed?

Fibersol-2 selectively promotes the growth of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species in the colon, consistent with prebiotic activity. Clinical and in vitro fermentation studies have confirmed increased Bifidobacterium counts following Fibersol-2 supplementation, while production of butyrate-generating Firmicutes such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii has also been observed, suggesting broad benefits to the gut microbial ecosystem.

### Can Fibersol-2 help with weight loss?

Fibersol-2 may modestly support weight management through two mechanisms: it provides only approximately 1–2 kcal per gram (versus 4 kcal/g for digestible carbohydrates) as a low-calorie bulking agent, and it stimulates GLP-1 and PYY release, which reduce appetite and delay gastric emptying. Controlled trials have shown statistically significant but modest reductions in hunger scores and subsequent meal intake, making it a useful adjunct rather than a standalone weight-loss solution.

### Is Fibersol-2 safe for people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Fibersol-2 is generally well-tolerated with minimal gastrointestinal side effects compared to other fiber supplements, making it a suitable option for many IBS sufferers. However, individual responses vary, and some people with IBS may experience symptoms during the initial adjustment period; starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing intake can help minimize discomfort. Those with severe IBS symptoms should consult a healthcare provider before adding any new fiber supplement.

### What does the research show about Fibersol-2 and colorectal health?

Preliminary in vitro and animal studies suggest that Fibersol-2 may have anti-cancer properties, with evidence showing tumor growth inhibition through apoptosis (programmed cell death) in colon cancer models. While these findings are promising, most clinical research in humans remains limited, and these results should not be considered proof of cancer prevention in people. More robust human studies are needed to establish definitive benefits for colorectal health.

### Can children safely consume Fibersol-2 as a fiber supplement?

Fibersol-2 is generally recognized as safe for children and is often used in pediatric formulations due to its low gastrointestinal side effect profile compared to other fibers. However, appropriate dosing for children depends on age and individual health status, and pediatric recommendations are typically lower than adult doses. Parents should consult with a pediatrician to determine the appropriate amount for their child's age and dietary needs.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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