Let’s chat about prebiotics vs. probiotics—there’s a reason the whole internet is making these gut-supporting nutrients practically go viral! Why? Prebiotics and probiotics are popular for their potential to support the gut microbiome, which plays a key role in overall health, including digestion and immunity.
Although our digestive system is built with an ‘orchestra’ of microbes and bacteria that keep it running like a well-oiled machine, every once in a while, it can use a little boost, where our pals, prebiotics, and probiotics can swoop in! Curious to explore more of the gut details? Let’s go!
Prebiotics vs. Probiotics Explained
Although they sound similar, prebiotics and probiotics are two different nutrients that can grow ‘beneficial’ bacteria in the gut.1
Probiotics
Probiotics are considered live microorganisms, hosted inside your gut! Typically probiotics can be found in supplements or specific foods that are aimed to support the good bacteria, otherwise known as microflora, in the body!
So you might be wondering, what’s the use case for taking probiotics? Many people include probiotics in their diet to support a balanced microbiome, especially after changes brought on by dietary fluctuations or minor illnesses, although effects can vary.
On the other hand, some simply take probiotics as part of their daily wellness regime, which again, can support equilibrium in the body, especially after some extra tummy discomfort. When it comes to nutrition, typically you can discover probiotics in the following foods:
- Yogurt: Recognized as an excellent source of probiotics, made from fermented milk products, which contain probiotics!
- Kefir: Noted as a drink that derives from fermented goat, cow, or sheep milk, kefir contains over 60 probiotics.2
- Sauerkraut: Known as fermented cabbage, sauerkraut is rich in vitamins and probiotics.
- Kimchi: Similar to sauerkraut, kimchi is also Korean fermented cabbage which supports overall gut health!
Now on top of consuming gut-supporting foods with probiotics, you can also opt to sip on a probiotic-forward drink, like our Probiotic Shot, which tastes like a juicy watermelon, raspberry dream!
It also contains a blend of 2B CFU probiotics and 1g prebiotic fiber! You’ll also get the following probiotic drink benefits in our mighty little shot:
- Multi-Strain Functionality from 3 Probiotic Strains
- 1g of Prebiotic Fiber from Jerusalem Artichoke Inulin
- Lemon & Aloe to Refresh Your System
How to Best Consume Suja’s Probiotic Shot
Make sure to keep your shot refrigerated, shake vigorously (separation is natural!), and enjoy the whole thing in one or two sips!
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are considered ‘plant fibers’ that can play a role in feeding healthy bacteria in your gut! Typically, they’re known as carbs that your body can’t break down naturally. This is why they’re quickly routed to the lower digestive tract, where they ‘ferment’ and act as fuel.
So what are some of the benefits of taking prebiotics and why should you potentially consider taking them? Prebiotics, such as inulin, may support food movement through the digestive tract and could influence overall transit time, potentially easing mild constipation according to some studies.4
Common foods that include prebiotics include:
- Chicory Root: Contains a high amount of inulin and fiber, which can help the digestive tract!
- Jerusalem Artichoke/Leeks: Also rich in inulin, artichokes and leeks can support a well-functioning gut microbiome.
- Garlic/Onions: Contains a large amount of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a soluble fiber that can cultivate healthy gut bacteria.
- Bananas: Contain a diverse array of gut-loving prebiotics!
- Whole Grains: Loaded with prebiotic fibers such as beta-glucan.
The Three Major Differences
By now, you see why many people include probiotics and prebiotics in their diet to support a balanced microbiome. In a nutshell, it comes down to these three key differences:
- Function: Probiotics inject live beneficial bacteria into the gut whereas prebiotics can nourish the development of good bacteria.
- Source: Probiotics can be found in fermented foods or added to supplements. Prebiotics come in the form of more fibrous foods.
- Inherent nature: Probiotics are considered live microorganisms and prebiotics are non-digestible, non-living fibers.
How To Keep Your Gut Health in Check
Outside of probiotics and prebiotics, there are many ways to support your gut, as part of your routine.
Drink Plenty of H20
Sipping on plenty of water throughout the day is one of the most optimal ways to give your gut extra love! This can support digestion and the gastrointestinal tract function. On top of this, it can aid in the absorption of nutrients your body may need to thrive!
Prioritize Fiber
Did you know that good bacteria in the gut can use fiber as fuel? Ensuring you get a healthy amount of fiber can also support regular bowel movements, thus supporting your overall digestive health!
According to the American Heart Association, the average person should take around 28 grams of fiber per day.5 So if you want to give your gut some extra TLC, make sure you prioritize this!
Exercise Daily
Believe it or not, when you simply move your body, this can help promote the body’s natural digestive process, which can allow the food you consume to move through your digestive tract. In turn, this can promote more frequent and healthy bowel movements.
Give Your Gut Extra Love with Suja’s Probiotic Shot
As you can tell, there’s a laundry list of ways you can give your gut some extra love! One of the easiest (and most delicious) ways is with our Probiotic Shot, which contains 3 multi-functional probiotic strains and a revitalizing watermelon taste.
Disclaimer: This blog contains promotional content about our products. The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. While the nutritional information and health tips shared here are based on published studies and expert insights, they should not replace advice and treatment from a healthcare professional. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Resources
- Oniszczuk, A., Oniszczuk, T., Gancarz, M., & Szymańska, J. (2021). Role of Gut Microbiota, Probiotics and Prebiotics in the Cardiovascular Diseases. Molecules, 26(4), 1172. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26041172
- Contributors, W. E. (n.d.). Kefir: Is It Good for You? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/diet/kefir-good-for-you
- Bărboi, O.-B., Ciortescu, I., Chirilă, I., Anton, C., & Drug, V. (2020). Effect of inulin in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (Review). Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 20(6), 1–1. https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2020.9315
- Johnstone, N., Dart, S., Knytl, P., Nauta, A., Hart, K., & Cohen Kadosh, K. (2021). Nutrient Intake and Gut Microbial Genera Changes after a 4-Week Placebo Controlled Galacto-Oligosaccharides Intervention in Young Females. Nutrients, 13(12), 4384. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13124384
- Sound the fiber alarm! Most of us need more of it in our diet. (n.d.). www.heart.org. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/01/27/sound-the-fiber-alarm-most-of-us-need-more-of-it-in-our-diet
