Prebiotics, Probiotics, Postbiotics, Oh My!
A healthy and diverse microbiome is critical to good health. But with words being used like Prebiotic, Probiotic, and Postbiotic, it causes a lot of confusion on exactly what we need to do to keep our good bugs happy and the bad bugs regulated.
Let’s start with prebiotics. Prebiotics are supplements or foods that contain a non-digestible ingredient that selectively stimulates the growth and/or activity of our own bacteria. Basically, prebiotics act as food for probiotics. Foods with healthy amounts of fiber (like asparagus, onions, and garlic) break down in your body to create substances that help probiotics to grow and thrive in your gut.
Probiotics are living microorganisms found in certain foods, such as kombucha and sauerkraut, which are crucial to good digestion. When you eat these foods, it helps your digestive tract and overall wellness by promoting a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms in your gut.
Postbiotics refers to the waste left behind after your body digests both prebiotics and probiotics. Healthy postbiotics include nutrients such as vitamins B and K, amino acids, and substances called antimicrobial peptides that help slow down the growth of harmful bacteria. Other postbiotic substances called short-chain fatty acids help healthy bacteria flourish.
To Review:
Prebiotics bring probiotics to life
Probiotics are beneficial living bacteria
Postbiotics make probiotics more powerful
Some of us can keep our microbiome balanced through diet and exercise. (Yes, exercise is good for the gut). However, some of us may need a little help.
Garden of Life has developed a whole line of Pre-Pro-Postbiotics to help. They like to call these “Whole-biotics.” Each of the whole-biotics in their line targets a particular concern.
They have whole-biotics to calm the mind, gas and bloating, vaginal health, and immune system. The new line also has a gummy for adults and kids, respectively.
Stop by the Alternative Health Food Store to learn more about the new Garden of Life Whole-Biotic line.
Source:
National Institute of Health
Garden of Life
Angel Hill-Reynolds, DNM, M.Ed., offers Natural Health Assessments, using the art of iridology with science-based solutions. She offers telehealth and in-store appointments. Visit AlternativeHealthFoodStore.com/services for details.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.