When it comes to gut health, most people have heard of probiotics, but what about prebiotics? While they may sound similar, these two work in different ways to support digestion, immunity and overall well-being. Understanding the difference can help you make the most of your gut health routine.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live, ‘friendly’ bacteria that help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. They play a key role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods but taking a high-quality microbiotic supplement with several strains of bacteria, ensures you’re getting enough daily support.
Sources of Probiotics:
• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Miso
• Udo’s Choice Microbiotics – expertly formulated for every life stage
What Are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are indigestible carbohydrates that are often a source of fibre. They act as food for probiotics, helping them grow and thrive in the gut. While they aren’t digested by the body, they are essential for maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria.
Sources of Prebiotics:
• Bananas
• Garlic
• Onions
• Asparagus
• Chicory root
• Oats
• Udo’s Choice Beyond Greens – packed with organic greens
Why You Need Both
Think of probiotics as the seeds in a garden and prebiotics as the fertiliser that helps them grow. Without prebiotics, probiotics wouldn’t flourish, and without probiotics, prebiotics wouldn’t have beneficial bacteria to support. Together, they create a balanced environment to support gut health.
How to Get the Best of Both
To support your gut health, include a mix of prebiotic-rich foods and probiotic sources in your daily diet. If you want extra support, Udo’s Choice Microbiotics can provide you with ‘friendly’ bacteria, while Beyond Greens provides the fibres to nourish your microbiome.
By giving your gut both prebiotics and probiotics, you’ll be supporting your digestion, nutrient absorption, and well-being.
References:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4049942/
https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/probiotics.html
https://www.bda.uk.com/resource/a-guide-to-probiotics-and-prebiotics-how-do-they-differ.html