Prebiotics vs Probiotics
A common question I get is, ‘What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?’
A prebiotic is defined as 'a substrate that is selectively utilised by host microorganisms conferring a health benefit'. These substrates are generally types of food.
For food ingredients to be classified as prebiotics, they must not be:
survive digestion in the stomach and small intestine
reach the large intestine mostly intact
feed beneficial gut bacteria
help healthy bacteria grow more than harmful bacteria
improve the overall gut environment
create health benefits in the gut and throughout the body
A prebiotic is a type of fibre or compound that humans don’t digest, but our good gut bacteria do. Feeding those gut bacteria helps improve our health.
There is a large list of foods which act as prebiotics, common foods include garlic, onion, leeks, Jerusalem artichoke, asparagus, bananas, apples, pomegranate, cooked and cooled potatoes and rice, lentils, chickpeas, and beans.
A probiotic is a live beneficial microorganism that helps support the balance and health of the gut microbiome when consumed in adequate amounts.
Results of clinical studies confirm the positive effect of probiotics on gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal disorders, elimination of Helicobacter, IBD, diarrhoea, allergies (e.g., atopic dermatitis), obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Furthermore, the positive effects of probiotics on human health have been demonstrated by increasing the body’s immunity (immunomodulation).
There is a wide range of probiotics available. It’s best to consult a naturopath to ensure you choose one suited to your symptoms and gut health needs. Taking the wrong strain may not provide benefit and, in some cases, may worsen digestive symptoms or imbalance.
Prebiotics are non-digestible plant fibres that feed beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that support and help balance the gut microbiome.
