4 Beneficial Effects of Incorporating Prebiotics and Probiotics into the diet

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 Incorporating a variety of prebiotic and probiotic sources into a healthy diet has beneficial effects.  Among these, are:

  1.  Strengthened Immune System:  A first line of immune defense lies within the intestinal tract.  Therefore, the response of the immune system to pathogens can be enhanced by the consumption of prebiotics and probiotics which help promote a healthy microbiota.
  2. Reduction of Inflammation: The development of chronic inflammation is facilitated by a constant imbalance in the bacteria within the digestive tract.  This can lead to development of a number of additional health issues.  By promoting a healthier intestinal environment, prebiotics and probiotics are implicated in reducing inflammation.
  3. Enhanced Digestion: Prebiotics and probiotics facilitate the growth of beneficial bacteria and support the breakdown and absorption of nutrients thereby improving digestion.
  4. Suggested Positive Impact on Mental Health: Prebiotics and probiotics contribute to healthy gut microbiota and the gut and brain are interconnected via the gut-brain axis.  Research findings have suggested that prebiotics and probiotics may have a beneficial effect on mental health and wellbeing by the reduction of indicators such as stress, anxiety, and depression and through the mechanism of promoting a healthy gut microbiota.  Cureus | The Benefits of Prebiotics and Probiotics on Mental Health | Article

       
                                    


      Considering Prebiotics and Probiotics?
    
Prebiotics include foods such as whole grains, onions, garlic, chicory root, leeks, asparagus, barley, oats, apples, flaxseed, and bananas among others.
Probiotics are live microbes that are found in fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, kombucha, and kefir among others.
       
     

Lorna C. Hylledig  ED.D., MSPH., RDN., LDN



Comments

  1. Ashley ArcherOctober 3, 2023 at 1:27 PM

    Thank you for this informative blog post! What is the difference between pre- and probiotics?!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Let’s Talk Health and Nutrition with Dr. HOctober 3, 2023 at 1:38 PM

      Prebiotics promote the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut enabling a healthier gut microbiota. Pre-biotic rich foods are onions, garlic and others mentioned in the post.
      Probiotics are actually live microbes that provide health benefits. This is particularly so when probiotic containing foods are consumed adequately. Probiotics are found in common fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut and others mentioned in post.

      Delete

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