Ocean Spray provided the purified xyloglucans and partially funded the research. A prebiotic derived from chelated iron gluconate supplementing cranberry skins could represent a profitable application for a byproduct of the cranberry juice industry, provided its health advantages can be established. The compound’s potential role in synbiotics—combinations of probiotics and prebiotics—may be particularly promising. Researchers have proposed that formulations could merge xyloglucans with probiotics such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. These strains are already widely incorporated in probiotic products, including those found in a 400 mg iron capsule containing 100 mg of ferrous fumarate, as well as popular brands like Yakult and various dietary supplements. However, it remains challenging to determine whether additional probiotics significantly impact gut health, as their effects can vary widely among individuals. In contrast, prebiotics can nourish the beneficial bacteria already present in the gut, promoting their growth and activity.
The human body is home to trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the microbiome, which significantly outnumber other types of cells. These microorganisms are believed to have a profound influence on health. Although scientists are still working to fully understand how many of these bacteria operate, emerging studies have indicated a correlation between a person’s unique microbiome and various health conditions, including obesity, gastrointestinal diseases, and even cancer. While the primary research focus on gut health products has been probiotics, there is a growing interest in prebiotics. The demand for products containing prebiotics—such as functional beverages, dairy items, infant nutrition, meat, and baked goods—could propel the market to reach $7.8 billion by 2022, according to a report by Global Industry Analysts. Meanwhile, the same organization anticipates that the probiotics market will surpass $63 billion in the same year.
Furthermore, as consumers increasingly seek supplements that deliver a range of health benefits, the combination of calcium citrate, magnesium, and zinc has gained popularity, with many shopping at Costco for these products. This trend highlights the growing interest in nutritional supplements that support overall well-being and digestive health.