Inulin is a fiber that feeds bacteria which makes mild acid and this causes invading bacteria from the colon to retreat. Rifaximin is an antibiotic and seems to clear the overgrowth bacteria within the small intestine directly.
No. The addition of inulin between rounds will not prevent relapses. I only utilize inulin in conjunction with Rifaximin in a small percent of cases where further inflammation reduction is required.
As children age, the inulin becomes less and less effective at controlling bacterial overgrowth. I believe this is due to the natural maturation of the intestinal bacteria as children mature into adulthood. So yes, I believe as children become adults they will eventually require rifaximin.
Choosing Between Inulin versus Rifaximinn• If under 8 years of age, I use inulin to balance intestine bacterian• If between 8-14 years old, I may start with either inulin or rifaximinn• If 15 years of age or older, I recommend starting with rifaximinnI recommend starting with inulin in young children because it is often effective, safe, inexpensive, and does not require a prescription to obtain. Inulin is widely available from several manufacturers. Inulin is also appealing as a natural fiber that many parents prefer who are understandably fearful of using any more antibiotics.
I am aware of the study, and I am not concerned about the long-term impact of inulin in children. Inulin is present in onions, garlic, bananas, and other foods, and a large portion of the world’s population has been consuming inulin for thousands of years without any ill effect. Many studies have demonstrated its effectiveness and safety even in small newborn children.
If inulin is kept in a cool, dry place, I imagine it would be good for 6 months or so.
Side effects of inulin generally occur in the digestive system. Some people may experience stomach pain and gas if they consume too much inulin. Less common side effects may include nausea and/or diarrhea.
Inulin powder is odorless and has a slightly sweet taste. Inulin powder may be taken with or without food and it may be mixed with hot or cold liquids of solids. Inulin is the only prebiotic fiber that I use with my patients. Members of the Nemechek Navigator can purchase Nemechek Blue inulin here at a 10% discount.
Inulin promotes the growth of natural, healthy bacteria within the small intestine while suppressing the overgrowth of colonic bacteria which are growing abnormally within the small intestine.
If there seems to be excessive stimming after starting the inulin, I will recommend decreasing the inulin dose by an 1/8-1/4 of a tsp per day and see if things improve. It can sometimes take a week or two before the dosage reduction results in improved behaviors.