Acacia Fiber (Gum Arabic)

Prebioticsoluble fiberModerate dose evidence

Also known as: gum arabic, gum acacia, Acacia senegal, Acacia seyal, arabic gum, Fibregum

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Acacia fiber is the dried sap of Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal trees, a highly branched arabinogalactan polysaccharide that dissolves completely in water with almost no viscosity. It ferments slowly along the length of the colon, which is why it is one of the best-tolerated prebiotic fibers at practical doses. A dose-ranging trial in healthy volunteers found bifidogenic effects at 10 g per day with good tolerance. It is used in gut-health and fiber powders, as a low-FODMAP-friendly fiber, and as an emulsifier and capsule-friendly bulking agent.

Research summary

Slowly fermented arabinogalactan; studied for increases in bifidobacteria and lactobacilli and for gentle effects on stool regularity.

Dosage

Daily amounts, of compound.

Lowest studiedTypical rangeHighest studiedUpper limit
5–10 g

Take 5–10 g daily, mixed into water or a beverage; the 10 g dose is the level with the clearest bifidogenic evidence. Well tolerated even without a ramp-up period. Dose_min left null because the lowest effective dose has not been established in a supplement-format trial.

Standardization: ≥90% soluble fiber (dry basis); spray-dried, low viscosity

Source material: tree gum exudate (Acacia senegal / seyal)

Format suitability

  • Capsule
  • Powder
  • Tablet
  • Softgel
  • Gummy
  • Liquid

Neutral taste, fully soluble, non-thickening; ideal for stick packs and drink mixes. Gram-level doses make capsules impractical.

Formulation notes

May slow absorption of some medications when taken at the same time; advise spacing. Low fermentation rate means minimal gas.

Sources

  1. Gum arabic establishes prebiotic functionality in healthy human volunteers in a dose-dependent manner. (Calame 2008)PubMed

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