Sunfiber (Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum)

Sunfiber (Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum, PHGG) is a water-soluble, non-gelling dietary fiber derived from guar gum (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) through controlled enzymatic hydrolysis using endo-beta-mannanase. Per typical serving (approximately 6–7 g powder): ~5–6 g soluble dietary fiber (galactomannan-based polysaccharides), ~1–2 g carbohydrates (non-fiber), <0.1 g protein, <0.1 g fat, and approximately 10–25 kcal. The primary bioactive compound is partially hydrolyzed galactomannan, consisting of a (1→4)-beta-D-mannopyranose backbone with alpha-D-galactopyranose side chains at a mannose-to-galactose ratio of approximately 1.6:1 to 1.8:1, with a reduced molecular weight range of approximately 20,000–100,000 Da (compared to native guar gum at ~1–2 million Da). Classified as a prebiotic fermentable fiber; undergoes colonic fermentation producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), predominantly butyrate (~15–20 mmol/L in vitro), propionate (~10–15 mmol/L), and acetate (~25–35 mmol/L), which serve as energy substrates for colonocytes and modulate gut pH. Contains negligible amounts of micronutrients: trace minerals including calcium (<5 mg), iron (<0.5 mg), potassium (<10 mg), and sodium (<5 mg) per serving. No significant vitamin content. Free of phytates, oxalates, or notable antinutritional factors. Bioavailability notes: PHGG itself is not absorbed in the small intestine (functions as a non-digestible fiber reaching the colon intact), but its fermentation byproducts (SCFAs) are readily absorbed colonically at ~95% efficiency. The prebiotic fermentation enhances mineral absorption (particularly calcium and magnesium) indirectly by lowering colonic pH. Low viscosity (~10–15 mPa·s in 5% solution at 25°C) compared to native guar gum, contributing to excellent gastrointestinal tolerance and minimal gas production (classified as a 'low-FODMAP' fiber). Glycemic index: effectively zero as a standalone ingredient; contributes to lowering the glycemic response of co-consumed carbohydrates by approximately 20–25% through delayed gastric emptying and slowed carbohydrate digestion. Contains no gluten, allergens, or GMO-derived components. Certified GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA at intakes up to 40 g/day without adverse gastrointestinal effects in clinical studies.