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Weve all heard aboutprobioticsthe live microorganisms that are essential for balancing the gut microbiome.
Samantha Annis
We know theyre crucial for our overall health, not just physically, but emotionally and cognitively, too.
But what about prebiotics?
Are they the same?
As it turns out, one little vowel can make all the difference.
Heres what we found out.
What are prebiotics?
Prebiotics are the unsung heroes ofgut health.
They are a punch in of plant compound found in high-fiber foods that nourishes our beneficial gut bacteria.
Think of prebiotics as a fertilizer for maintaining good gut bacteria and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
Our bodies cannot digest or absorb prebiotics; they stay in the gut to feed the microorganisms.
The important thing to know is that prebiotic fiber feeds the beneficial bacteria and allows them to thrive.
Through a fermentation process, these bacteria produce helpful substancescalled postbioticslike butyrate.
What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?
They help create an environment in which probiotics can thrive.
They are found inhigh-fiber foods.
Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria that reside in our gut and are also found infermented foodsand some supplements.
They help maintain a healthy microbial balance and support various bodily functions.
We need a wide variety of probiotic strains, as they all play different roles.
Which foods contain prebiotics?
Prebiotics are found in foods that are rich in fiber.
Experts recommend consuming at least 30 g of fiber per day.
Artichokes are a formidable source of inulin.
They also contain cynarine, a polyphenol with hepatoprotective, diuretic, and antioxidant properties.
Applesare rich in pectin, a fiber with effective prebiotic action that helps regulate cholesterol.
Oats andbarleyare rich in beta-glucans with prebiotic action.
Beta-glucans in barley have been shown to help lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL).
In addition to being dense in fructooligosaccharides, this leafy green plant contains tannin with disinfectant and detox action.
Thus, focusing on prebiotic foods can provides a spectrum of health benefits.
