Probiotics Vs. Prebiotics: What's The Difference? Which Is Better?

WHAT DOES THE GUT DO? 

The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiome. These microorganisms help break down food, produce essential vitamins and nutrients, and protect the gut from harmful pathogens. When the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut is disrupted, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including digestive problems, autoimmune disorders, and even mental health issues.

Research has linked gut health to immune function since a healthy gut microbiome helps regulate the immune system and protect against infections. Gut health has also been linked to mental health — since the gut and the brain are so closely connected, the gut microbiome can produce neurotransmitters that impact mood and behavior. Meaning, a well-balanced gut can equal a well-balanced you.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS? 

While probiotics and prebiotics may sound similar, they have distinct roles in promoting gut health.

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that the human body cannot digest. These natural compounds are commonly found in foods rich in complex carbohydrates, like resistant starch and fiber. Prebiotics act as a fertilizer for the good bacteria in your gut, promoting their growth and overall health. By feeding these beneficial microorganisms, prebiotics help keep the gut microbiome in balance and support optimal digestive and immune health.

On the other hand, probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that are beneficial to the gut microbiome. Consider these to be the good bacteria that live in the gut (or your gut’s best friend). These beneficial microorganisms can help promote healthy digestion, boost immune function, and even influence your overall wellness. Probiotics work by maintaining a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. By supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria, probiotics help keep the gut microbiome in check and support optimal immune function and normal inflammation response.

BEST FOOD TO FIND PREBIOTICS:

• Garlic
• Bananas
• Asparagus
• Artichokes
• Legumes, beans, and peas
• Oats
• Berries
• Onions
• Dandelion greens

BEST FOOD TO FIND PROBIOTICS:

• Kombucha
• Yogurt (with live and active cultures)
• Apple cider vinegar
• Tempeh
• Pickles
• Aged cheeses
• Kimchi
• Sauerkraut
• Miso

PROBIOTICS VS. PREBIOTICS: WHICH IS BETTER?

It’s not so much that one is better than the other, but rather that incorporating both prebiotics and probiotics into your diet through food and supplements can help the two work in harmony with each other.

Prebiotics function as nourishment for the good bacteria in your gut, while probiotics are the actual bacteria themselves. When consumed in either supplement or food form, prebiotics and probiotics work hand in hand to promote a healthy gut.

So, is it possible to consume prebiotics and probiotics simultaneously? Absolutely! You can find them as a combined supplement. While probiotics are capable of functioning independently, incorporating prebiotics may enhance their effectiveness, but prebiotics alone may not provide significant benefits.

TRY THESE SUPPLEMENTS: 

Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotics

Ritual Ritual Synbiotic+

seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic

Garden of Life Probiotics for Women

Love Wellness Good Girl Probiotics

Rae Pre + Probiotic Dietary Supplement Capsules for Gut Health

HUM Nutrition Gut Instinct Probiotic Supplement

With the right combination of prebiotics and probiotics, you’ll be on your way to smoother digestion, a stronger gut, and boosted immune system in no time.

Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.