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Quick Answer
An analog of starch is resistant starch, which includes various types such as indigestible dextrins and polydextrose.
Long Answer
Understanding Analogous Carbohydrates to Starch
Starch is a polysaccharide that serves as a major energy source in the human diet. However, there are several carbohydrate-based food ingredients that are considered analogous to starch, particularly those that exhibit similar physiological properties, such as resistance to digestion and fermentation in the gut.
Key Analogous Carbohydrates
Resistant Starch (RS): This type of starch is not digested in the small intestine and can be fermented in the large intestine, providing health benefits such as improved gut health and blood glucose regulation.
Indigestible Dextrins: These are derived from starch and are resistant to digestion, making them a form of dietary fiber.
Polydextrose: A synthetic polymer of glucose that is used as a low-calorie bulking agent and is also resistant to digestion.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS): Naturally occurring oligosaccharides found in various fruits and vegetables that can also act as dietary fiber.
Definition of Analogous Carbohydrates
According to the American Association of Cereal Chemists, analogous carbohydrates are defined as carbohydrate-based food ingredients that are nondigestible and nonabsorbable, but are not natural plant components. This includes various forms of dietary fiber that can mimic the physiological effects of starch in the body.
Health Benefits
These analogous carbohydrates, particularly resistant starch and indigestible dextrins, have been shown to promote beneficial physiological effects, such as:
Improved gut health through fermentation and production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
Lowering blood glucose levels and improving insulin sensitivity.
Reducing cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
In summary, the name of an analog of starch includes resistant starch, indigestible dextrins, and polydextrose, among others. These carbohydrates play significant roles in nutrition and health, particularly in their ability to resist digestion and provide various health benefits.
Analogous carbohydrates like resistant starch play a crucial role in gut health and metabolic regulation, mimicking some of the beneficial effects of traditional starches.
The hypothesis that all dietary fibers have the same physiological effects has been challenged by recent studies showing varying impacts based on fiber type and source.
The assumption that synthetic fibers are inferior to natural fibers is being reevaluated as more research highlights their potential health benefits.
Potential Experiments
Investigate the effects of different types of resistant starch on gut microbiota composition and metabolic health in a controlled clinical trial.
Compare the physiological effects of synthetic analogs of starch with natural sources in a long-term dietary study.