Probiotics vs Prebiotics: What’s the Difference and Why Do You Need Both?

Probiotics vs Prebiotics: What’s the Difference and Why Do You Need Both?

Gut health has been a hot topic for a while now, and for good reason. A healthy gut is key to preventing and managing a range of health issues, from digestive problems to immune system disorders. If you’ve been doing your research, you’ve probably heard of both probiotics and prebiotics. But what are they, exactly, and why do you need both?

Probiotics: The Good Bacteria

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. These microorganisms live in your gut and help to keep your gut healthy by balancing out the bad bacteria. They also aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

So, where can you find probiotics? You can get them in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. You can also find them in the form of supplements, such as capsules, powders, and liquids.

Prebiotics: The Food for Good Bacteria

Just like your body needs food to survive, probiotics need food in order to thrive – and that’s where prebiotics come in. Prebiotics are a type of fiber that humans can’t digest, but that good bacteria in your gut can. Prebiotics act as food for probiotics, helping them grow and multiply. In essence, prebiotics help to create a healthy environment in your gut for probiotics to do their work.

You can find prebiotics in foods like garlic, onion, asparagus, bananas, and apples. You can also find them in supplements, usually in the form of powders or capsules.

The Benefits of Probiotics and Prebiotics

Now that you know the difference between probiotics and prebiotics, let’s take a look at the benefits of each.

Probiotics

Improved Digestion: When there’s a good balance of bacteria in your gut, your digestion works more efficiently.
Boosted Immunity: Probiotics help to strengthen your immune system by supporting the cells in your gut.
Reduced Inflammation: Studies have shown that probiotics can help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can lead to a range of health issues.
Mental Health Benefits: There’s also evidence that probiotics can help to improve mood and mental health, possibly by reducing inflammation and promoting the release of feel-good neurotransmitters.

Prebiotics

Reduced Inflammation: Just like probiotics, prebiotics have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, potentially reducing the risk of chronic disease.
Improved Digestion: Prebiotics can help to relieve constipation and other digestive issues.
Lower Cholesterol: Some studies have shown that prebiotics can help to lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Better Sleep: Prebiotics can also improve the quality of your sleep by promoting the production of serotonin.

How to Get Probiotics and Prebiotics

Getting enough probiotics and prebiotics in your diet can seem daunting at first, but with a few small changes, it’s easy to incorporate these beneficial microorganisms into your meals.

Probiotics:

Eat fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
Look for probiotic supplements in the form of capsules, powders, or liquids.
Speak to your doctor about whether a probiotic supplement is right for you, especially if you have a compromised immune system or are taking antibiotics.

Prebiotics:

Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Include prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onion, asparagus, bananas, and apples in your diet.
Look for prebiotic supplements in the form of powders or capsules.