Prebiotics and Probiotics

Prebiotics and probiotics are crucial for keeping your gut healthy and feeling good overall. Prebiotics are plant fibres that your body can't digest but help feed the good bacteria in your gut. These fibres travel through your digestive system and get broken down by the bacteria, helping them grow and stay active. Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms, often referred to as "good bacteria", that help balance the gut microbiome. They can aid in restoring the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and offer additional health benefits. Prebiotics and probiotics work together to help digestion, boost your immune system and keep your gut healthy.

It’s usually best to take both prebiotics and probiotics together. Prebiotics feed the good bacteria in your gut, helping with digestion and metabolism. They can also support calcium absorption and help with issues like constipation and type 2 diabetes. Probiotics are live bacteria that help with digestion and work better when paired with prebiotics.

Some supplements include both prebiotics and probiotics, offering a combined benefit for gut health. If you take both types, spacing them out by 10 to 15 minutes can help reduce the risk of bloating or you can take the probiotic first on an empty stomach.

Prebiotic supplements can support gut health by feeding the beneficial bacteria in your digestive system. This helps strengthen the gut barrier, as well as improving digestion and metabolism. Prebiotics and probiotics may also support the immune system and even help with mood regulation.

The best time to take probiotics depends on your personal routine and the type of probiotic. Many people take them in the morning, 30 minutes before breakfast or a few hours after dinner, as this may help the probiotics reach your intestines more effectively by avoiding stomach acid. If you have a sensitive stomach, taking probiotics at night might be better so you can sleep through any discomfort. The most important thing is to take probiotics consistently at a time that works best for you.