Going Pro
Probiotics and prebiotics are both essential to supporting health. However, while they may sound similar, each has a distinct function. Read on to learn the difference between these prefixes and how the two work in tandem to cultivate a healthy gut microbiome.
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract of the human body, particularly the large intestine, is home to trillions of microorganisms, or microbes, referred to as the gut microbiome. The majority of these microbes are beneficial and play an important role in supporting digestive, immune, and metabolic functions as well as overall health.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live, beneficial microbes that are naturally found in the GI tract. Consuming probiotics helps boost the existing population of beneficial microbes in your body and counteract the harmful kinds. In addition to helping maintain a balanced gut microbiome, probiotics can also strengthen your immune system when traveling and help replenish microbe levels after taking a course of antibiotics.
According to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, the benefits of probiotics include:
- Helping the immune system function properly
- Aiding digestion by breaking down food that can’t be digested
- Keeping harmful microorganisms in check
- Producing vitamins and aiding in nutrient absorption
Probiotics can be taken as an oral supplement or implemented into your diet by consuming fermented food and drinks such as:
- Yogurt and kefir
- Kimchi
- Sauerkraut
- Miso
- Kombucha
- Pickles prepared in brine
Prebiotics
Described as a “microbiome fertilizer,” prebiotics are not living microorganisms but rather the fibers that feed them. Because the body can’t fully digest these fibers, they become a source of food for beneficial microbes, promoting their growth and function and helping the gut microbiome thrive.
Prebiotics are found in high-fiber foods such as:
- Asparagus
- Onions
- Garlic
- Oats
- Bananas
- Apples
- Whole grains
- Beans
- Flaxseed and chia seeds
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. As managing editor for CMC Media & Marketing Group, she is responsible for the development and completion of 16 publications involving health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia. Additionally, Rachel has led digital marketing initiatives for CMC Media & Marketing Group as well as the development of content for the introduction of Choose Huntsville™, Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide™ for Huntsville, Alabama.
