Is IMO (isomalto-oligosaccharides) keto?
Not keto-friendlyCounts in full
No. Sold for years as a fiber in low-carb bars, but research shows most of it is digested like starch. Count it.
What it is
Isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO) are short chains of glucose made from starch. They were widely used in protein bars and labeled as fiber, which made the net carbs look tiny.
Studies have found that much of the IMO in those products is digested and absorbed, raising blood sugar in a way that real fiber does not. Many brands have since reformulated. If you see IMO on a label, count it as a carb unless the brand shows otherwise.
How to count it
Count every gram toward your net carbs.
Sugar under another name. Count every gram.
Where you will find it
- Older or imported protein bars
- Low-carb syrups
- Fiber-fortified snacks
Also listed as
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General nutrition information, not medical advice. Products and formulas change, so check the nutrition panel too. If you manage diabetes or take medication that affects blood sugar, ask your doctor how to count these ingredients. See our health disclaimer.
Quick answers
Is IMO (isomalto-oligosaccharides) keto?
No. Sold for years as a fiber in low-carb bars, but research shows most of it is digested like starch. Count it.
Does IMO (isomalto-oligosaccharides) count toward net carbs?
Counts in full. Count every gram toward your net carbs.
What is IMO (isomalto-oligosaccharides)?
Isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO) are short chains of glucose made from starch. They were widely used in protein bars and labeled as fiber, which made the net carbs look tiny.
What other names does it go by on a label?
isomaltooligosaccharides, isomalto-oligosaccharides, isomaltooligosaccharide, isomalto-oligosaccharide, isomalto oligosaccharides, imo, imo syrup, isomaltooligosaccharide syrup.
Related label words
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