Starch that escapes digestion and reaches the colon, where bacteria ferment it — like fiber.
What does Resistant Starch do?
Feeds gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids like butyrate.
Which foods contain Resistant Starch?
Green bananas, legumes, whole grains; cooked-then-cooled potatoes, rice and pasta form some.
What is known and unknown about Resistant Starch?
Fermentation and butyrate production are established; size of health effects in people is still studied.
Evidence & sources
Resistant starch is not digested in the small intestine and is fermented by bacteria in the colon. Evidence: established. Known: Well-characterized. Unknown: Health effects vary by type and dose. Source: EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Scientific Opinion on dietary reference values for carbohydrates and dietary fibre (2010).