Probiotics vs. Prebiotics: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters?

Chances are, you’ve heard about the benefits of probiotics and prebiotics, and how they can help support your digestive health. But what are these substances, and how do they differ? Let’s take a closer look at probiotics vs. prebiotics.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that live in our digestive tract. These beneficial bacteria help regulate our immune system, produce vitamins and nutrients, and keep harmful bacteria in check. Probiotics can be found naturally in foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, or taken as supplements.

What Are Prebiotics?

Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are not living organisms, but rather a type of fiber that feeds the good bacteria already in our digestive system. Prebiotics can be found in foods such as bananas, onions, garlic, whole grains, and artichokes.

What’s the Difference?

The main difference between probiotics and prebiotics is that probiotics are living organisms, while prebiotics are not. Probiotics must be ingested either through food or supplements, while prebiotics can be ingested simply by eating foods that contain them.

Another difference is that while probiotics are known to directly aid in digestion and promote overall gut health, prebiotics indirectly support gut health by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Essentially, prebiotics are fuel for probiotics, helping them thrive and remain effective.

Why It Matters

Both probiotics and prebiotics play important roles in gut health, and a healthy gut can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being. Studies have shown that having a diverse microbiome, the collection of microorganisms that live in our gut, is associated with reduced risk of chronic disease, improved mental health, and better immune function.

In addition, some studies have suggested that supplementing with probiotics or prebiotics can be beneficial for specific conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and even allergies.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking to support your digestive health, it’s important to understand the difference between probiotics and prebiotics. While they may sound similar, they serve different functions in the body. Both can be beneficial, and many health experts recommend incorporating both into your diet through whole foods and supplements.

Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or making changes to your diet.