We have all heard of probiotics, but have you heard of prebiotics?

Probiotics have been recognized as nature’s answer to gut health for at least the last decade. These living microorganisms, often referred to as good bacteria, are known for their ability to enhance both the digestive process and the immune system, as well as prevent the growth of less friendly bacteria. There are more than 20 species of probiotics. Some of the most common include Lactobacillus – which is often in the content of yogurt. We have the tendency to feed our body with all the good bacteria, but have you ever stopped to wonder what do these living microorganisms feed on?

Prebiotics are asserted to act as food for probiotics. Prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrates or plant fibres – such as inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides that is found in the starchy substance of fruits and vegetables – that feed and fertilize the good bacteria present in our colon. Thus, fruits and vegetables are an important component of a healthy, balanced diet.

How do the two work together? The two work synergistically for gut health. Probiotics replenish the good bacteria in our body whereas prebiotics nourish and fertilize the probiotics present in our body. Both probiotics and prebiotics are required by the body in order to have a healthy gut.

Probiotics are essential for gut health and to prevent inflammatory gut illnesses, yeast infections, tooth decay and so on. Probiotics can be rampantly found in raw yogurt or cultured dairy products like Kefir or cottage cheese. However, it is also extremely important to feed the probiotics with prebiotics in order to maintain a thriving colony of probiotic cultures in the colon. Similar to probiotics, prebiotics can be obtained through supplements. It can also be found in all fruits and vegetables – be it raw or cooked.

It is a smart move to maintain a healthy balance in our gastrointestinal tract as it benefits the whole body.