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Differences between Probiotics and Prebiotics

By Gretel Morales - 2021-11-18T13:17:40Z

In recent years, the importance of gut health has been emphasized, as it is said that the stomach is the second brain and can influence many aspects of our health. Therefore, at Kiwilimón, we discuss the many benefits of consuming probiotics and prebiotics; you’ll be surprised at how good it is to include them in your diet.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms found in certain foods, mostly fermented ones. These types of bacteria have countless health benefits.

What are prebiotics?

Prebiotics consist of fiber and natural sugars, which help probiotics proliferate in our intestines. The advantage of these types of foods is that most are plant-based, so vegans and vegetarians can consume them without any problem.

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What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

The difference between the two is very simple; probiotics are the bacteria that improve our gut health, while prebiotics feed these bacteria. For example, in this case, probiotics are a car, and prebiotics are the gasoline it needs to function.

The importance of consuming probiotics and prebiotics

According to Harvard University, probiotics and prebiotics are essential for gut health and our overall well-being. On one hand, probiotics are a type of bacteria with many benefits, as they keep the intestines in optimal condition and improve symptoms of diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.

In the case of probiotics, these are live microorganisms found in foods like yogurt, fermented cabbage, cheese, kefir, sourdough bread, pickles, kimchi, and cottage cheese, among others. It is worth mentioning that eating these types of foods occasionally will not improve your gut health, as you need to consume them daily to notice significant changes.

In addition to the importance of consuming foods rich in probiotics, you should also eat products that contain prebiotics, as these will help the former thrive in the gut. So, for probiotics to bring us benefits, it is crucial to eat foods rich in prebiotics, such as asparagus, bananas, watermelon, almonds, pistachios, flaxseed, beans, whole grains, red wine, honey, legumes, garlic, onion, and maple syrup.

In an interview with the health portal of Harvard University, Dr. Teresa Fung indicated that diets rich in “fats, sugars, and meat create a toxic environment for microbes and can even change the ratio of different types of bacteria in your body. In summary, the good microbes in the gut will suffer with a diet of hot dogs and fries.” Now you know, moderate your consumption of these types of foods.

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Why is gut health important?

Remember that the presence of good bacteria in your gut is essential to protect you against bad bacteria and fungi.
It should be noted that these bacteria can produce vitamin K and fatty acids. A study published in 2019 indicates that these types of acids nourish the cells that line the colon, which means they can help strengthen the barrier that protects it against harmful viruses and bacteria.

Additionally, a research published in 2013 indicates that probiotics help strengthen the immune system and improve symptoms of depression.

In 2017, a group of scientists published research indicating that probiotics have several health benefits:

They decrease the need for antibiotics
They could reduce the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes
Fewer vaginal infections
Reduce the chances of developing atopic dermatitis

You can also read: The benefits of fiber beyond preventing constipation

The best recipes for your gut health

Now that you know the many benefits of consuming probiotics and prebiotics, feel encouraged to include foods that contain both in your diet; your digestion and gut health will improve in no time.