Having spoken about Probiotics, it is pertinent that we discuss about its helper, Prebiotics. This article will only focus on prebiotics, if you want to read about probiotics, click here..
What Are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are classified as non-digestible food ingredients that can be utilised by probiotics. Prebiotics are selectively utlilised in the gut to increase healthy bacteria. They aid digestion and enhance the production of valuable vitamins. They also promote growth of beneficial bacteria (lactobacilli and bifidobacteria), without feeding the ‘bad’ types. The good bacteria play a significant role in regulating your immune system, inhibiting the growth of pathogens (disease causing bacteria) and digesting food. Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are the most advanced form of prebiotics. They belong to a group of particular nutrient fibres that feed and encourage the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Prebiotics alter the colonic microbiota in favour of a healthier composition
Source of Prebiotics
The major source of prebiotics is dietary fibre. They occur naturally in fruits and vegetables, but you can also take them in the form of nutritional supplements for maximum health benefits. The soluble dietary fibre inulin, for example, is found in garlic, asparagus, onion, Jerusalem artichokes, and leeks. However, you’d have to eat a huge amount of these natural prebiotics — preferably raw — to gain any benefit from them.
While all prebiotics are fibres, not all fibres are prebiotics. The common forms of dietary fibre present in the majority of plant based foods and grains are less selectively fermented by the bacteria in the gut and lack some of the health benefits demonstrated by prebiotics. However, they are still of benefit to our health and their consumption is to be encouraged as they help maintain regular toilet habits as well as promoting the health of the gut itself.
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