Probiotics and prebiotics are both important for maintaining a healthy digestive system, but they are not the same thing. Probiotics are live bacteria or yeasts that are beneficial to human health, while prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrates that act as food for probiotics. Probiotics help to regulate digestion, boost immune system function, and fight off harmful bacteria. Prebiotics, on the other hand, help to promote the growth and activity of probiotics in the digestive system.
In order to get the most benefit from probiotics, it’s important to consume both prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics help to feed and stimulate the growth of probiotics, making them more effective. Probiotics can be found naturally in fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, as well as in dietary supplements. Prebiotics can be found in leafy greens, legumes, and certain fruits and vegetables.