🔸 Definition:#Oligosaccharides are carbohydrates composed of 3 to 10 monosaccharide units linked to

🔸 Definition:#Oligosaccharides are carbohydrates composed of 3 to 10 monosaccharide units linked together by glycosidic bonds. They are more complex than monosaccharides and disaccharides but simpler than polysaccharides.🔹Structure:🟠Monosaccharide Units: The building blocks of oligosaccharides can be various monosaccharides such as glucose, fructose, galactose, etc.🟡Glycosidic Bonds: These are covalent bonds that connect the monosaccharide units. The nature of these bonds (α or β) affects the properties and digestibility of the oligosaccharides.🔸 Types of Oligosaccharides:🔴Trisaccharides: Composed of three monosaccharide units (e.g., raffinose, which is found in beans and whole grains).🟢Tetrasaccharides: Composed of four monosaccharide units (e.g., stachyose, found in legumes).🔵Higher Oligosaccharides: Composed of 5 to 10 monosaccharide units (e.g., fructooligosaccharides, found in many plants).🔹 Sources:🟣Dietary Sources: Found naturally in plants, especially in legumes (beans, lentils), whole grains, vegetables (onions, garlic), and some fruits.🟢Commercial Uses: Added to food products as prebiotics, sweeteners, or for improving texture.🔶Functions and Benefits:🟣Prebiotics: Oligosaccharides serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. They help in the growth of probiotics such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.🔵Digestive Health: By supporting healthy gut bacteria, oligosaccharides can improve digestion and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.🟣Immune System Support: The promotion of a healthy gut flora can enhance the immune system.🔴Caloric Value: They provide fewer calories compared to simple sugars, making them a useful ingredient in low-calorie diets.⚪️Blood Sugar Regulation: Oligosaccharides have a lower glycemic index, which helps in managing blood sugar levels.🔹 Metabolism:🔴Fermentation in the Gut: Unlike simple sugars, oligosaccharides are not fully digested in the small intestine. They reach the colon, where they are fermented by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids and gases.🟠Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs): These are beneficial for colon health and provide additional energy.@Essential_Biochemistry