Live Friendly Bacteria / Probiotics & Prebiotics

Probiotics are live, naturally occurring microorganisms that can offer beneficial effects when consumed in adequate amounts. These "good" bacteria are found in certain foods such as fermented vegetables, live yogurt, and kefir. The term "probiotic" comes from the Greek words meaning "for life," reflecting their role in promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria play a critical role in supporting your digestive and immune health.

Probiotics are live microorganisms, often referred to as "friendly" or "beneficial" bacteria, that are naturally present in some foods such as yogurt, kefir, and other fermented products. They are also available in supplement form.

Emerging research suggests that probiotics may help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which is essential for supporting digestive well-being. They may be particularly helpful in restoring balance when this microbiome is disrupted by factors such as diet, stress, or the use of antibiotics.

While probiotics are generally considered safe for most individuals, it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplement, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions.

Ultimately, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are key components of supporting your body's natural microbiome and overall well-being.

In general, probiotics are considered safe for most people. However, when first introducing probiotics into your routine, some individuals may experience mild temporary symptoms such as gas or bloating. These effects typically subside as your body adjusts.

Over time, these symptoms should reduce as the body becomes more accustomed to the probiotics and the gut microbiome stabilises. In many cases, the reduction of harmful bacteria and the improvement in gut balance leads to a decrease in bloating and gas. It’s important to allow your body time to adapt and gradually incorporate probiotics into your daily routine.

People with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment, or individuals with certain health conditions, should consult a healthcare professional before using probiotics. It's always best to seek medical advice if you have any concerns or if you’re unsure whether probiotics are right for you.

To maximize the effectiveness of probiotics, it's best to take them alongside meals. Consuming probiotics right before or after eating provides a buffering effect, which helps protect the probiotics as they pass through the digestive tract. Additionally, taking them with food ensures that they are more likely to survive the stomach’s acidic environment, giving them the best chance to reach the gut and promote a healthy microbial balance.

Probiotics are best stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, which can reduce their effectiveness. For some probiotic supplements, refrigeration may be required, so it's important to follow the storage instructions on the packaging to maintain their potency.

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres or compounds found in certain foods that act as fuel for beneficial bacteria in the gut. Unlike probiotics, which introduce live microorganisms into the body, prebiotics serve as a food source for the "friendly" bacteria already present, helping them to thrive and maintain a healthy balance in the gut microbiome.

Common sources of prebiotics include foods like garlic, onions, leeks, bananas, asparagus, and whole grains. By encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics can support digestive health and overall well-being.

When choosing a prebiotic product, it’s important to read the label carefully to understand the type of prebiotic included. Specific prebiotic fibres may target different areas of health, and the details provided on the label can guide further research to ensure the product aligns with your individual needs. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about the suitability of a prebiotic for you.

Using a prebiotic alongside a probiotic can be beneficial because they work together to support the balance of bacteria in your body. Prebiotics act as food for the beneficial bacteria introduced by probiotics, helping them to thrive and maintain a healthy microbiome. This synergy between prebiotics and probiotics can enhance their effectiveness in supporting digestive health and overall well-being.

Some probiotic products are designed to include prebiotics, sometimes referred to as synbiotics. These products combine both probiotics and their food source, offering a convenient way to support your microbiome. Always check the product label to see if a prebiotic is already included, as this can influence your decision on whether you need to take an additional prebiotic separately.

As with any supplement, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about combining prebiotics and probiotics, especially if you have specific dietary needs or health conditions.