Gut Health: Prebiotics, Probiotics, Synbiotics

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The gut microbiome, composed of beneficial microorganisms residing in the digestive tract, significantly impacts human health. However, various factors such as antibiotics, diet, stress, and medical treatments can disturb this delicate balance. To maintain a healthy and balanced gut microbiome, incorporating certain foods and supplements becomes crucial. Among them are probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, which play distinct roles in supporting gut health. Understanding their differences and benefits is essential for promoting overall well-being.

Probiotics: Probiotics encompass foods or products containing live microorganisms intended to have a positive impact on health. These beneficial strains, such as Bifidobacterium, Lactobacilli, and S. boulardii, can be naturally prepared at home, like curd, or commercially available as capsules and drinks. It is important to note that the efficacy of probiotics can vary based on the quality and quantity of the strains present.

Prebiotics: Prebiotics are non-digestible ingredients found in certain foods or products that stimulate the growth and activity of gut microflora, thereby improving overall health. Natural sources of prebiotics include onion, asparagus, garlic, chicory, Jerusalem artichoke, oats, and wheat. They can also be added to various food products like pasta, fiber-rich biscuits, and cereal bars. Examples of prebiotics include xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMO).

Synbiotics: Synbiotics combines prebiotics and probiotics in a calculated manner based on individual requirements. They can be either complementary or synergistic. Complementary synbiotics involve the independent action of prebiotics and probiotics, supporting the growth of existing gut microbes and introducing different beneficial strains. In contrast, synergistic synbiotics ensure that the substrate specifically enhances the activity or growth of the included probiotic strain. Synbiotics are available in capsule form.

Embracing a Comprehensive Approach: Beneficial microorganisms and their food sources are essential for proper bodily function. Probiotics introduce beneficial microbes, while prebiotics serves as nourishment for these healthy microbes. Combining the two in a systematic manner creates synbiotics. Each of these components exerts beneficial effects in different ways and should be included in a person’s diet for overall well-being. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, especially for individuals with comorbidities or those undergoing medical treatments, before considering any supplement intake.

Re-reported from the story originally published in News 18