You’ve probably heard of probiotics, those live microorganisms that can provide some health benefits when taken in sufficient amounts. They are often referred to as “good bacteria” because of their role in promoting a healthy gut. In order to survive, those beneficial microbes need fed. That’s where prebiotics play a role.
Related Reading: PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
What Are Prebiotics And What Do They Do?
Prebiotics are a special type of carbohydrate fiber that act as fuel for good gut microbes. While most prebiotics are fiber, not all fibers are prebiotics. That’s because there are two categories of fibers—soluble fiber and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber is fermented by gut bacteria while insoluble fiber is not. It’s the soluble fibers that are metabolized by the beneficial gut microbes that are considered prebiotics.
Prebiotics support gut health by stimulating the growth of beneficial gut microbes. They are part of the package needed to support overall gut health, as well as other areas of health.
Where Are Prebiotics Found?
Prebiotics are found naturally in foods like legumes, artichokes, onions, bananas and chicory root, among other foods. You can also find prebiotics added to foods. If you skim the ingredient list of some fiber-rich foods, you might find that fructooligosaccharides (FOS), derived from inulin, and galactooligosaccharides, have been added to the product to increase the fiber content. You can also get your daily dose by taking a prebiotic supplement.
What Does The Research Show?
When scientists investigate prebiotics, they usually choose one type of prebiotic fiber to study, and evaluate its effectiveness at supporting gut health. While some foods contain natural sources of prebiotics, it is much easier to use a dietary supplement form in a study. That’s because the amount of prebiotic given can be controlled, and it’s easier to evaluate whether or not there is a true benefit.
Research supports the benefits of including prebiotics in your diet. The prebiotic fructooligosaccharide (FOS) has been shown to promote intestinal health by helping Acidophilus (a probiotic) flourish in the intestines. Inulin, the source of FOS, has been shown to support a healthy digestive system by promoting the growth of bifidobacterium.
GNC Prebiotic GOS is formulated with Bimuno® B-GOS and is clinically shown to improve the growth of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. That’s why the scientists at GNC decided to use this specific prebiotic in their formula. And, as an added bonus, the prebiotic Bimuno has been shown to improve digestive comfort, regularity and bloating in as little as 7 days.^
What to Consider When Adding Fiber
When adding fiber to your diet—including prebiotics—be sure to increase it slowly to give your gut plenty of time to adjust to your increased intake. And, be sure to drink lots of water.
Are you ready to make your insides happy? Give your gut the nutrients it needs to maintain a healthy living environment. Be sure to include probiotics, prebiotics and fiber as part of your daily nutrition plan.
