Probiotics and prebiotics are two essential components that play a key role in maintaining the health of our digestive system and thus our overall health. Although their names sound similar, their functions and effects on our bodies are different.
Probiotics = Good bacteria for our gut
Probiotics are live micro-organisms, often referred to as 'good' or 'beneficial' bacteria, which when consumed in appropriate amounts, provide health benefits to humans. They are the same or similar types of bacteria that are naturally present in our digestive tract.
These bacteria provide us with benefits such as:
-
- Probiotics can help maintain the balance of the intestinal microflora, which is important for proper digestion and nutrient absorption.
- They help strengthen the immune system by promoting the production of antibodies and can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
- Probiotics are often used in the treatment and prevention of intestinal diseases such as infectious diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Now let's break down prebiotics. Prebiotics = Food for probiotics
Prebiotics are carbohydrates that serve as "food" for probiotics. These substances promote the growth and activity of certain beneficial bacteria in the gut and include oligosaccharides and inulin. Prebiotics are present in many fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
Their main advantages are:
- Prebiotics are a substrate for certain intestinal bacteria, which ferment them to produce short-chain fatty acids, substances important for gut health.
- Prebiotics can improve the absorption of minerals, especially calcium and magnesium, which is important for bone health.
- Prebiotics can help stabilize blood glucose levels by slowing digestion and increasing insulin sensitivity.
We can get probiotics and prebiotics from our natural daily diet. Probiotic foods include yogurt, kefir, fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchi, and fermented beverages such as kombucha. Prebiotics can be found in foods such as bananas, garlic, onions, leeks, artichokes, and whole grains such as oatmeal.
Although probiotics and prebiotics are considered safe for most people, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. For some people, especially those with weakened immune systems or serious intestinal conditions, probiotics can cause problems such as bloating, gas, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms.
Probiotic and prebiotic supplements have become popular dietary supplements due to their benefits for gut health and overall health. These supplements can be particularly useful in cases where the diet fails to provide sufficient amounts of these nutrients.
Probiotic supplements are made from cultures of live bacteria that are stabilized and preserved in forms that allow them to survive and function until they reach the intestines after consumption. They may contain one or more strains of probiotic microorganisms, including but not limited to the genera Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces and others.
Prebiotic supplements are made of fiber and oligosaccharides that promote the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria. Common ingredients in prebiotic supplements include inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and others.
When choosing probiotic or prebiotic supplements, it is also important to understand that their effectiveness may depend on many factors, including your health status, existing gut microbiota and lifestyle. For optimal results, it is important to combine supplementation with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. However, always consult your doctor when supplementing. It is also important to rule out possible contraindications.
Conclusion
Probiotics and prebiotics are important players in maintaining a healthy digestive system and overall health. When including them in the diet, one should act judiciously and prefer primarily natural sources. If necessary, especially for health problems, it is advisable to consult their supplementation with a physician to ensure their effectiveness and safety.
Treat your body to one of the healthiest nutritional supplements on the market! Probiotics Bio Harmony A versatile powder that you can easily mix into your favourite food to ensure your gut microflora gets enough minerals and probiotics. It improves digestion, speeds up metabolism and relieves bloating and gas. It is also a good supplement for weight loss and diet modification.
