Prebiotics are indigestible fibers or carbohydrates that feed and support certain gut bacteria, unlike probiotics, which contain live bacteria. They are found in foods such as onions, garlic, bananas, and white beans, and serve as food for bacteria in the large intestine, where they are fermented.
What are prebiotics?
Prebiotics are substances that occur naturally in certain foods and can support specific bacteria in the gut. Unlike probiotics, which contain live bacteria, prebiotics are usually made up of fiber or carbohydrates that are not digested by the human body, but serve as food for gut bacteria.
Which foods contain prebiotics?
Prebiotics are naturally present in a number of plant foods. Onions, garlic, leeks, bananas, asparagus, oats and legumes are some examples of foods rich in prebiotic fibers or carbohydrates. These nutrients can be used by the intestinal bacteria as an energy source.
What are the most well-known prebiotics?
The most well-known prebiotics are:
Inulin: occurs naturally in vegetables and fruits, such as onions, bananas, chicory and sweet potatoes.
Fructo-oligosaccharides: naturally found in the same fruits and vegetables as inulin.
Pectins: occur naturally in fruits and vegetables, such as apples and pears.
Beta-glucans: occur naturally in grains (such as oats and wheat) and in mushrooms.
How do prebiotics function in the body?
Prebiotics pass through the digestive tract without being broken down by human enzymes. Once in the large intestine, they serve as food for certain intestinal bacteria. These bacteria ferment the prebiotic fibers, which can promote their growth and influence various processes in the intestines.
What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?
Prebiotics support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics contain live bacteria that are ingested through supplements or fermented foods. Probiotics add bacteria to the gut flora, while prebiotics serve as food for the bacteria already present.
Which prebiotic does Insentials use?
An example of a prebiotic is white beans. White beans are known for their prebiotic effect due to their high fiber content. These fibers are not broken down by the body in the small intestine, but reach the large intestine, where they serve as a food source for beneficial intestinal bacteria.
In the Insentials Gut Day you will find white bean extract as an ingredient.
