Why We Removed Inulin From Our Protein Shakes

Making our low FODMAP shakes even easier to digest

When we first developed the Enlighten Me Shakes, we included a small amount of carefully sourced inulin.

Inulin is a type of soluble fibre often used in nutrition products for its potential prebiotic benefits, helping to support beneficial gut bacteria. The amount we used was intentionally very small, and the formulation was tested to ensure it remained below the FODMAP threshold.

However, as more people began using the shakes - particularly those living with IBS or sensitive digestion - we started hearing something interesting.

A number of customers and health professionals shared that while the shakes were generally well tolerated, some individuals seemed specifically sensitive to inulin.

For people living with IBS or digestive sensitivities, finding a protein powder without inulin that feels gentle on the stomach and does not trigger bloating can sometimes be challenging.

So, we listened.

After reviewing this feedback carefully, we made the decision to simplify the formulation.

Today, all of the Enlighten Me Shakes are completely inulin-free, helping make them easier to tolerate for people looking for a protein powder for IBS or sensitive digestion, and helping make them even gentler for people with sensitive digestion.

What Is Inulin?

Inulin is a type of soluble fibre commonly derived from chicory root and often added to protein powders and meal replacement shakes.

It is frequently used in protein powders and meal replacement products as a prebiotic fibre, meaning it may help support beneficial gut bacteria.

Because it can also increase fibre content and improve texture, inulin is often included in products such as:

• protein powders
• meal replacement shakes
• snack bars
• fibre supplements
  
  

Many people tolerate inulin very well, and it can be a useful ingredient in certain formulations.

However, for some individuals - particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or sensitivities to fermentable fibres - inulin may contribute to digestive symptoms.

Does Inulin Cause Bloating?

Inulin is a fermentable fibre, meaning it can be broken down by bacteria in the gut.

For many people, this process is completely well tolerated.

For others, however, the fermentation process can produce gas, which may contribute to symptoms such as:

• bloating
• gas
• abdominal discomfort
• changes in bowel habit
  
  

This can be particularly relevant for people living with IBS or sensitive digestion.

While inulin is considered low FODMAP in small amounts, some individuals still find they are sensitive to it.

Because of this, many people specifically look for protein powders without inulin or chicory root fibre.

Ingredients in Protein Powders That Can Cause Bloating

For people with digestive sensitivities, not all protein powders are the same.

Certain ingredients commonly used in nutrition products may contribute to digestive discomfort for some individuals.

Inulin or Chicory Root Fibre

Inulin is a fermentable fibre that may cause bloating or gas for some people, particularly those with IBS or FODMAP sensitivities.

Sugar Alcohols (Polyols)

Sugar alcohols - also known as polyols - are often used in protein powders as sweeteners.

Examples include:

• erythritol
• sorbitol
• maltitol
• xylitol
  
  

Polyols can be difficult for some people to digest and may contribute to digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas or loose stools. Many of these sweeteners are also classified as FODMAPs, which means they may trigger symptoms for individuals with IBS.

Large Amounts of Added Fibre

While fibre is important for overall health, suddenly increasing fermentable fibres can sometimes lead to bloating or discomfort.

Why We Decided to Remove Inulin Completely

When we first created our shakes, the small amount of inulin included was chosen for its potential prebiotic benefits and was carefully tested to remain within low FODMAP limits.

However, over time we began hearing from customers and health professionals who shared that some individuals were specifically sensitive to inulin.

While many people tolerate inulin well, our goal has always been to create a shake that as many people as possible can comfortably use.

Ultimately, we decided that simplicity and digestibility mattered more than including this specific prebiotic fibre.

So we removed it entirely.