Probiotics vs. Prebiotics… What’s the Difference?
It’s NOT TOO LATE… What You Need to Know about
GOOD vs. BAD Bacteria!
Probiotics and prebiotics are hot topics in the nutrition world right now. Together the two play essential roles in your health.
- Probiotics are the healthy microflora that lives in the digestive tract.
- Prebiotics are the critical nutrients that probiotics need to thrive.
Combining the two nutrients creates a synergistic impact, enhancing their beneficial effects.
by Jon Bender
More About Probiotics
Probiotics are micro-organisms that live in the digestive tract. They provide numerous health benefits, including:
- immune system support,
- digestive regularity, and
- increased absorption of the nutrients that you consume.
The benefits gained depend on the strain of probiotic bacteria taken; for example, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are frequently used in commercial products.
Good sources of Probiotics are commonly found in foods. These include:
- kefir
- yogurt
- sauerkraut
- miso soup
- soft cheeses like Gouda
- Also in supplement form
More About Prebiotics – the Kickstarter for Probiotics
Prebiotics are the non-digestible carbohydrates that aid in the survival of probiotic bacteria…
- Prebiotics are also described as a type of dietary fiber It is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables,
- They are fermented by probiotics in the digestive tract and used as an energy source,
- During fermentation, short-chain fatty acids, magnesium, and calcium are released from the food you consume. Pathogenic microorganisms are discouraged from infecting the system.
Good sources of Prebiotics are commonly found in foods. These include:
- artichokes
- asparagus
- honey
- bananas
- oatmeal
- red wine
- maple syrup
- legumes
- garlic
- Also in supplement form
Inulin – a Special Prebiotic for…
Inulin is a soluble plant fiber present in significant amounts in chicory root, along with numerous other plants. It’s also fructan (a polymer of fructose molecules) and is prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria located in the gut. Other foods that contain inulin are onions, garlic, whole wheat, bananas, Jerusalem artichokes, and asparagus – all considered prebiotic foods. Inulin also clings to cholesterol in the GI tract, fighting against metabolic syndrome.
The good news is, Ageless Impact now offers a super green drink product, loaded with Inulin.
7 Key Benefits of Probiotics and Prebiotics…
- Improves Digestive Health
The most well-known benefit of probiotics is that it promotes good digestive health. While researchers are still learning about how probiotics work, it has been shown that they help keep the digestive system well-balanced. Probiotics also help the body recover from suffering from the effects of “bad” bacteria
- Helps Prevent and Treats Diarrhea
Probiotics are known for preventing diarrhea and/or reducing its severity.
- Boosts Immunity
Both probiotics and prebiotics may help prevent high blood pressure. When used in conjunction, scientists refer to them collectively as “synbiotics.”
- Lowers Blood Pressure
Consuming probiotics regularly may lower high blood pressure, according to research presented in the American Heart Association’s Hypertension journal. It’s thought that probiotics and prebiotics may help lower blood pressure by positively affecting overall health. This includes improving total cholesterol and LDL levels, reducing insulin resistance and blood glucose.
- May Reduce the Risk of Diabetes
In a study involving participants with type-2 diabetes, researchers found that a higher intake of probiotic-rich yogurt can reduce the risk of diabetes. In addition, combining probiotics with prebiotics may help manage blood sugar, especially when blood sugar levels are elevated.
- May Support Mental Health
Several studies have linked “gut health” to mental health, including stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Supports Weight Loss
It’s believed that certain probiotics may inhibit dietary fat absorption, increasing the amount of fat eliminated with feces. Probiotics may also help fight obesity in various ways, including releasing hormones that regulate the appetite and Increasing fat-regulating proteins.
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So, whether you’re hoping to improve immune function…
… lower the risk of disease, or
… simply enhance your overall health,
Probiotics and Prebiotics are a Valuable Addition to your Healthy Living Plan.
REFERENCES:
Inulin: The Prebiotic with Many Health Benefits
Probiotics: Top Benefits, Foods & Supplements
7 Reasons to Get Prebiotics in Your Diet