Probiotics and prebiotics are both good for your gut health, but they work in different ways. Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide benefits when consumed, such as promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and keeping pathogenic bacteria at bay.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible compounds that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics are fibres that cannot be digested by humans; however, they serve as food for beneficial bacteria living in our gut. As a result, prebiotic consumption promotes the production of helpful substances like short-chain fatty acids (e.g., butyrate) and also helps protect the gut from pathogens and toxins.
Which is better: probiotics or prebiotics?
The short answer is, both!
There are many similarities between probiotics and prebiotics, and both are beneficial for your gut health.
Prebiotics are fibres that cannot be digested by humans, but they serve as food for beneficial bacteria living in our gut.
As a result, prebiotic consumption promotes the production of helpful substances like short-chain fatty acids (e.g., butyrate) and also helps protect the gut from pathogens and toxins.
When consumed, probiotics are actually live microorganisms that provide benefits such as promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and keeping pathogenic bacteria at bay.
How Do Probiotics and Prebiotics Benefit Your Health?
Probiotics – When consumed, probiotics are actually live microorganisms that provide benefits such as promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and keeping pathogenic bacteria at bay. A healthy gut microbiome can help boost your immune system, improve digestion, and protect you against chronic diseases (like arthritis, allergies, asthma, and diabetes).
Additionally, probiotics can help you lose weight, manage your blood sugar levels, and reduce your risk of heart disease. Prebiotics – Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible compounds that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria.
A healthy gut microbiome is also essential for good health, but it can be disrupted by a number of factors. For example, you may experience an increased risk of gastrointestinal disorders as you age, or you may be put at a higher risk if you have diabetes, a high-sugar diet, or low-fibre diet.
A healthy gut microbiome can help boost your immune system, improve digestion, and protect you against chronic diseases (like arthritis, allergies, asthma, and diabetes).
6 Ways That Probiotics and Prebiotics are Good for Your Gut Health
– Improved Digestion and Regular Bowel Movements
– Better immune system and lowered risk of infections
– Reduced risk of gas, bloating, cramping, and diarrhea
– Improved metabolism and reduced blood sugar levels
– Reduced risk of developing certain types of cancers
– Better overall health and mood
What to Look for When Buying Probiotic and Prebiotic Supplements
If you decide to purchase probiotic or prebiotic supplements, make sure that the product contains “live cultures”. A lot of brands on the market will claim to have live cultures, but actually have “dead cultures”. This is a misnomer and should be avoided at all costs.
Prebiotic supplements are typically in the form of capsules or powder, while probiotic supplements are in the form of chewable tablets or powder packets. These supplements have no known side effects, but it’s always a good idea to talk to your physician before starting a new supplement.
Conclusion
Probiotics and prebiotics are both good for your gut health, but they work in different ways. Although they both promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, they do so in different ways. Prebiotics are fibres that cannot be digested by humans, but they serve as food for beneficial bacteria living in our gut. As a result, prebiotic consumption promotes the production of helpful substances like short-chain fatty acids (e.g., butyrate) and also helps protect the gut from pathogens and toxins.
Similarly, probiotics are live microorganisms that provide benefits when consumed, such as promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and keeping pathogenic bacteria at bay. Probiotics and prebiotics are both beneficial for your gut health, but they work in different ways.
