Inulin Supplementation for Reducing Inflammation and Knee Pain in Older Adults With Osteoarthritis

Inulin is a fermentable prebiotic fiber derived from chicory root. For this study, inulin is packaged into single-dose sachets containing 5 g, 10 g, or 15 g of powder. Participants in the 10 g arm escalate from 5 g/day for 3 days to 10 g/day, then continue with sachets containing a 2:1 blend of inulin and maltodextrin to provide a daily 10 g inulin dose. Participants in the 15 g arm escalate from 5 g/day for 3 days, 10 g/day for 4 days, then 15 g/day for the remaining 8 weeks. Sachets are mixed with food or beverage and taken once daily with the largest meal.

Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate powder widely used as a food additive. For this study, maltodextrin is used as the placebo comparator. It is packaged into single-dose sachets identical in appearance and taste to inulin sachets. Participants receive escalating doses (5 g/day for 3 days, 10 g/day for 4 days, then 15 g/day) for a total of 8 weeks. Sachets are mixed with food or beverage and taken once daily with the largest meal.