Prebiotics Probiotics
LEARN MORE ABOUT PREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS
AND HOW THEY CAN HELP SUPPORT DIGESTIVE WELLNESS
Q:
What are prebiotics?
A:
Prebiotics are a special type of fiber that serve as food for certain “good” bacteria in the gut. They are often found in foods like grains, chicory, asparagus, onions, and legumes. Inulin, from the root of the chicory plant, is a prebiotic that is commonly added to foods such as cereal and snack bars.
Q:
Are probiotics different from the bacteria that are already living in my gut?
A:
Yes. Probiotics are specially selected to survive as ingredients outside the body, e.g. in probiotic-fortified foods and supplements, and to survive the harsh acidic conditions of our upper gut. Additionally, each probiotic should be clinically tested to confirm they provide a particular health benefit.
Q:
What is the connection between prebiotics and probiotics?
A:
Prebiotics are a special type of fiber that serve as food for selected good bacteria. The selected bacteria that use the prebiotics are determined by scientific research. Some prebiotics feed selected probiotic bacteria, while other prebiotics feed selected bacteria already living in the gut.
Q:
What are probiotics?
A:
Probiotics are special live bacteria that, when administered in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit. Probiotics are often referred to as “good bacteria”. Probiotics are found in probiotic-fortified foods and supplements. The probiotics we consume in these foods and supplements travel through our digestive tract. They work alongside the trillions of bacteria that are already present in our gut.
Q:
Are probiotics all about the gut?
A:
Our bodies are complex and interconnected and the gut sits at the core of it all. While probiotic effects on the gut have been studied, science is emerging on the impact that the microbiome may have beyond digestive wellness, to overall health.
