Prebiotics vs Probiotics
We frequently get questions about prebiotics and probiotics. Both are important and do entirely different jobs.
Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that beneficial bacteria can use as a food source. Some examples are:
Soluble dietary fiber (inulin) found in various plants like asparagus, garlic, onions, bananas, leeks, artichokes and some grains
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are found in plants like blue agave, chicory root, bananas and others
Prebiotics stimulate the growth and activity of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli that are both beneficial for your health.
Probiotics are the actual microorganisms (bacteria and yeasts) that you are trying to culivate. The most common sources of microorganisms are fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir and of course, dietary supplements. Why do we need probiotics? The short version is that they compete with harmful bacteria and yeasts for resources and many of the byproducts of the probiotics’ metabolism is essential for our health.
Speaking of supplements, applying the right probiotic for the right condition is super helpful. When we selected a formula for our own brand (BetterGenix), we selected the bacteria that are most commonly helpful for people having trouble with their intestinal environment. In FloraGenix you will find 3 strains of Lactobacillus, 4 strains of Bifidobacterium and 1 strain of Streptococcus. You will also find stabilized, non-dairy probiotics and FOS as mentioned above.
DS 2025