Meta Information
ID:resistant-starch
Name:Resistant Starch
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- RS
- Undigestable Starch
Active Compound
null
Intervention Type
dietary_practice
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:dietary_supplement
- eu:food_additive
- us:gras_substance
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Modulates gut microbiome, improves metabolic health, and supports gut barrier function.
Typical Protocol
- Incorporate 10-40 grams of resistant starch daily from food sources (e.g., green bananas, cooked-then-cooled potatoes/rice, legumes) or supplements, gradually increasing intake to avoid digestive upset.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
5
High Cost:
30
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Low to moderate monthly cost, typically not covered by insurance.
Summary
Resistant starch is a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the large intestine. It acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids like butyrate. This mechanism improves gut barrier integrity, glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and potentially reduces systemic inflammation, all contributing to healthy aging.
Purpose
Feeds beneficial gut bacteria, improves metabolism, supports gut health for healthspan.
Card Summary
Non-digestible carbohydrate supporting gut health and metabolic function.
Drug Class
null
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
6.5
Justification:
Robustly optimizes gut microbiome and metabolic health, offering substantial systemic benefits.
Evidence
Grade:
A
Score:
8.5
Justification:
Multiple human RCTs and meta-analyses support gut and metabolic benefits.
Safety
Score:
2.5
Justification:
Generally recognized as safe, with mild digestive side effects at high doses.
Flags
- May cause gas, bloating, or discomfort, especially when introduced rapidly or in large quantities.
- Start with low doses and gradually increase to assess tolerance.
Verdict
Effective and safe dietary addition for gut and metabolic health.