Pro and Prebiotics

PREBIOTICS are a special form of dietary fiber that acts as a fertilizer for the good bacteria in your gut.

PROBIOTICS are live bacteria that can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods.

Research shows that they are beneficial for the health of our digestive system. Antibiotics, stress and an unhealthy diet can alter the health of our gut. The best way to obtain these benefits is from food. Food rich in probiotics include fermented vegetables (kimchi), yogurt, miso, kombucha. Food rich in prebiotics include legumes, whole grains. Food fortified in probiotics are not always good for you. They can still be processed or high in sugar.

If considering a supplement, it important to know what your purpose is for taking it. Talk to a dietitian or your doctor about it first.For overall good health, following a balanced diet rich in prebiotics and probiotics is ideal.

Gaia Di Giacomo, MS, RDN, LDN