SAME DAY appointments available! Click here to get started!

Skip to main content

The Pros and Cons of Pro and Prebiotics

What are Probiotics and Prebiotics?

Have you heard the words probiotics and prebiotics and not sure what they mean? Or maybe you have heard them associated with nutrition and digestive health, but exactly sure what they do? Well probiotics and prebiotics work together in the body but are different. Prebiotics are natural non-digestible food components that help with promoting the growth of helpful bacteria in the gut. They promote the “good bacteria” which are very beneficial to our GI tract. We find prebiotics in a variety of foods including banana, garlic, onion, leeks, asparagus, artichokes, and whole-wheat foods. Also dietary fiber and resistant starches are considered prebiotics.

Probiotics are the actual “good bacteria” which are naturally found in our digestive system. Good bacteria help to digest food, destroy disease-causing microorganisms, maintain a healthy gut flora, and promotes overall good health. Probiotics are found in kimchi, live cultured yogurt, kombucha, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, kefir, Probiotics have also been known to help with the symptoms associated with IBS.

In a nutshell, we need prebiotics for probiotics. In addition to found to the common foods listed above, prebiotics and probiotics are also found in pill form. Although the pill is available, food sources are readily available and the foods are able to easily be absorbed and digested in the body.
Information from: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics/introduction.h

You Might Also Enjoy...

At-Home Tips to Alleviate Acid Reflux

At-Home Tips to Alleviate Acid Reflux

Post-dinner burps, regurgitation, or heartburn are unenjoyable and can stop you from getting a satisfying night of sleep. In this blog, we explore ways of alleviating acid reflux at home.
When Is Acid Reflux a Serious Problem?

When Is Acid Reflux a Serious Problem?

Occasional heartburn is common, often due to overeating or certain foods. However, acid reflux could indicate a serious health issue. Find out when acid reflux becomes a significant medical condition.
Hemorrhoid Banding: What to Expect

Hemorrhoid Banding: What to Expect

Most hemorrhoids respond well to warm baths and other home treatments. When they’re severe, consider hemorrhoid banding. Read on to learn what to expect from the procedure.
5 Facts Everyone Should Know About Colon Cancer

5 Facts Everyone Should Know About Colon Cancer

March is colon cancer awareness month, and there’s no better time to refresh yourself on facts about the disease. Read on to learn five facts about colon cancer and what you can do to lower your risk.
5 Signs You May Have Anemia

5 Signs You May Have Anemia

Anemia can be difficult to detect, especially because its symptoms are easy to mistake for other conditions. Find out about five of the most common signs of a low red blood cell count.