“The road to health is paved with good intestines.” - Sherry. A. Rogers
Maintaining good gut health is imperative for the overall health and well-being of the human body. Gut health encompasses a complex web of interactions between your digestive system, gut microbiome, and the body. The gut, often referred to as the 'second brain,' plays a pivotal role in our overall health, and it's where many health issues begin. Surprisingly, a staggering 70% of Indians grapple with gut-related problems, ranging from indigestion to irritable bowel syndrome. This complex ecosystem of microbes not only governs digestion but also influences our immune system, mood, and even weight management.
Your digestive tract consists of a complex web of good and bad bacteria, and these are known as microbiomes. Often, the lack of good bacteria or a surplus of bad bacteria can cause stomach-related problems such as gas, constipation, diarrhoea, or chronic stomach diseases. Hence, a well-balanced gut is imperative for your overall health, and that's where the dynamic duo of probiotics and prebiotics come into the picture.
What are Probiotics and Prebiotics?
Before we delve into the benefits that the dynamic duo offers, it's imperative to understand their roles. Palak Midha, Co-founder, Miduty explains all about probiotics and prebiotics.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms, also known as good bacteria, that offer many health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They primarily reside in your digestive system, helping to maintain a balanced gut microbiome. These good bacteria are usually found in fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, yoghurt and in dietary supplements. Some benefits of probiotics include restoring and maintaining gut health, enhancing digestion, boosting the immune system, and reducing digestive disorders.
Also Read: Know When and How To Take Probiotics To Avail Best Benefits
Prebiotic Fibre
On the other hand, prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that act as food for good bacteria in your gut. It's a dietary fibre that your body cannot digest but sustains the good bacteria in your gut. Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are not living organisms but rather substances found in certain foods. Foods with prebiotic fibre are garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, and whole grains. Some benefits of prebiotic fibre include nourishing gut microbiota, regulating bowel function, and supporting overall well-being.
Watch this video to know best probiotic foods:
Benefits of combining probiotic and prebiotic fibre
The dynamic duo of probiotics and prebiotic fibre stands out as a reliable and science-backed approach to wellness. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods and prebiotic fibre into your diet can lead to many health benefits, from improved digestion to enhanced mood and immune function. Let's discuss the benefits of probiotics and prebiotic fibre in detail.
Improving Gut Health: The microbiome in your gut plays a pivotal role in overall health. Probiotics help maintain a balanced and diverse microbiome by introducing beneficial bacteria. Prebiotic fibre is the food source that nourishes these good bacteria, allowing them to thrive. Together, they promote digestive health and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal disorders.
Also Read: Morning Or Night? Expert Explains The Best Way To Take Probiotics
Boosting Immune System: Probiotics bolster immune response by supporting the development of immune cells and enhancing the gut's barrier function. Prebiotic fibre complements this by protecting the gut lining. The combined effect of probiotics and prebiotics leads to a robust immune system.
Maintaining Weight: A healthy weight is a goal for many, and the dynamic duo can assist them in their journey. Probiotics can influence the balance of gut bacteria, which may impact metabolism and the storage of fat. When combined with prebiotic fibre, which reduces cravings for unhealthy foods, the duo is an important combination in the quest for weight management.
Enhance Nutrient Absorption: Probiotics can enhance the absorption of essential nutrients by improving the gut environment. On the other hand, prebiotic fibre contributes to a healthy gut lining, ensuring efficient nutrient absorption. This synergy ensures that your body makes the most of your nutrients, promoting good health.
Watch this video to know best foods to boost gut health
Bottomline
Probiotics and prebiotics are two vital components of a healthy diet, offering many benefits for our health and overall well-being. Probiotics and prebiotics work together in synergy to improve gastrointestinal health. Incorporating them into your daily diet can optimise gut health, leading to your well-being.