What's the difference between Probiotics and Prebiotics?

Question:

What's the difference between Probiotics and Prebiotics?

Short Answer:

Probiotics are good bacteria that can help provide various health benefits to our gut, while prebiotics are the "fuel" for the probiotics to thrive.

Longer Answer:

Our gut flora works to help keep our bodies healthy and we can help achieve a healthier environment by consuming both probiotics and prebiotics. Having a healthy gut environment has been linked to an increase in immune system protection, protection from harmful viruses/bacteria, and lowers your chances of obesity. It can also help decrease inflammation, depression, and reduce risks of cancer. But in order to help achieve this healthier harmony, the right forms of bacteria must be consumed. A diet full of sugar or processed foods can lead to an imbalance of bad bacteria, which can colonize rapidly, also leading to potential weight-gain.

Luckily, many healthy foods we recommend on plan contain both probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotic sources include fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and pickled vegetables. However, since fermented foods aren't everyone's favorite, you can also supplement with probiotics as a way to help increase your healthy bacteria intake. Our Super Fuel protein comes with probiotics included as an easy way to get a daily dose into your system.

Prebiotic sources include oats, asparagus, garlic, onion, banana, apple, and cacao. Prebiotic supplements may not be as necessary since they are present in the fiber with so many foods we recommend but consider taking a probiotic supplement if you feel you need a little extra in your day.

Yours in Health & Friendship,

- The Fit Mother Project 
Customer Success Team