Probiotics vs Prebiotics: What’s the Difference?

Probiotics and prebiotics can both contribute to the overall health and well-being of your digestive system, but they are not the same thing. While they both work to promote a healthy gut microbiome, they function in different ways and can have different effects on your body.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can have a positive effect on your health when consumed in sufficient quantities. They are often referred to as ‘good bacteria’ because they work to restore the balance of bacteria in your gut. Probiotics can be found naturally in certain foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. They can also be taken in supplement form.

Probiotics work by enhancing the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiome. They can help to improve digestion, boost immunity, and even enhance mental health by supporting the gut-brain connection. Probiotics have been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including diarrhea, IBS, and certain types of allergies.

What Are Prebiotics?

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed the good bacteria in your gut. They are often found in plant-based foods, such as bananas, garlic, onions, and asparagus. Prebiotics are not live organisms themselves, but rather they work to sustain the beneficial bacteria in your gut.

Prebiotics can help to ensure that the good bacteria in your gut are able to thrive and continue to have a positive impact on your health. They work by providing the necessary food for the good bacteria to grow and multiply, which allows them to curb the growth of harmful bacteria.

What’s the Difference?

The primary difference between probiotics and prebiotics is that probiotics are live organisms, while prebiotics are non-living fibers. Probiotics work to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut, while prebiotics work to sustain the good bacteria that are already present. While both can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, they function in different ways.

It’s important to note that while probiotics and prebiotics can have a positive impact on your overall health, they are not a cure-all. A healthy diet and lifestyle are still key to maintaining good health and preventing disease. Additionally, not all probiotics and prebiotics are created equal. It’s important to choose high-quality sources and speak with a healthcare professional before adding supplements to your diet.

The Bottom Line

Probiotics and prebiotics can both contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, but they function in different ways. Probiotics are live organisms that work to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut, while prebiotics are non-living fibers that work to sustain the good bacteria that are already present. It’s important to choose high-quality sources and speak with a healthcare professional before adding supplements to your diet.