Probiotics vs. Prebiotics: What’s the difference?
Most of you have probably heard of probiotics and quite possibly even supplement with them. However, the similar term prebiotics is currently trending and you may be asking: “what’s the difference?” Let’s chat about it!
Probiotics: live bacteria found in certain foods or supplements.
Prebiotics: non-digestable parts of food (mostly fiber) that feed or nourish the good bacteria in your gut.
Probiotic info:
Probiotics are bacteria that line your digestive tract and support your body’s ability to digest nutrients and fight infection. Having probiotics present keeps your immune system strong and promotes a regular and healthy digestion.
You all know I’m a huge advocate for using whole foods in our diets to get the nutrients we need. While there are many foods that naturally contain good bacteria for our gut, most of us don’t get enough in our diet, so supplementing can be helpful.
Examples of foods with live probiotics:
- high quality plain yogurt with live cultures
- sauerkraut
- kimchi
- kombucha
- keifer
- pickled vegetables (non-pasteurized)
Prebiotic info:
Prebiotics exist as food for the probiotic bacteria that you are putting into your body. All prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber.They nourish the good bacteria that everyone already has in their gut. Think of them as fuel to help the bacteria grow. This prebiotic fiber goes through the small intestine undigested and is fermented when it reaches the large colon. There it provides nutrients for the “good” bacteria, aka probiotics. By boosting your daily fiber intake, you will also boost the prebiotic fiber that feeds your good gut bacteria which than creates a healthy digestive system creating a healthy you!
Foods that are high in prebiotic fiber:
- legumes, beans and peas
- oats
- bananas
- berries
- asparagus
- dandelion greens
- garlic
- onions
- leeks
Should you supplement with a prebiotic?
If you are consuming a whole food, fiber rich diet you do not need a prebiotic supplement.
P.S. As you may know, gut health is my specialty in my coaching practice. For me, healing my gut changed everything! Since 70-80% of our immune system is in our gut, it is extremely important to make sure yours is in tip-top shape! If you are struggling with constipation, bloating or IBS, schedule a free 30 minute gut health consult with me.
In the meantime, make sure to join my FREE GUT SUPPORT FOR WOMEN FACEBOOK GROUP! This is a community of women working through gut issues together! We have weekly live videos, a discussion board & support that you may be looking for!
Sources:
www.draxe.com
