Prebiotic vs. Probiotic: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Prebiotics are dietary fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria, while probiotics are live beneficial bacteria themselves.
Key Differences
Prebiotics are non-digestible food components, typically fibers, that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines. They act as food for probiotics. Probiotics, on the other hand, are live microorganisms, often found in yogurt, supplements, and fermented foods, that provide health benefits when consumed, primarily by improving or restoring the gut flora.
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Nov 21, 2023
Prebiotics enhance the growth and activity of some beneficial bacteria in the gut. They are found in various fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Unlike prebiotics, probiotics are sensitive to heat and stomach acid, which can reduce their effectiveness. Probiotics must survive the journey through the digestive system to be effective.
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Prebiotics are stable and unaffected by temperature and body conditions. They reach the colon intact and are fermented by the beneficial bacteria present there. Probiotics require careful storage and handling to maintain their viability. They are often taken in supplement form or through certain fermented foods.
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Prebiotics are beneficial for overall gut health and can help with issues like constipation and regular bowel movements. Probiotics can aid in specific gastrointestinal issues, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and lactose intolerance, by introducing beneficial bacteria directly to the gut.
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Prebiotics help in increasing calcium absorption, potentially enhancing bone density. Probiotics are known for their role in immune function, producing substances that can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses in the gut.
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Comparison Chart
Stability
Stable, unaffected by temperature and acid
Sensitive to heat and stomach acid
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Source
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains
Yogurt, supplements, fermented foods
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Primary Benefit
Enhances gut health and nutrient absorption
Aids in specific gastrointestinal issues
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Prebiotic and Probiotic Definitions
Prebiotic
Prebiotics act as fertilizer for the good bacteria in the gut.
Eating garlic regularly can serve as a prebiotic, fostering a healthy digestive system.
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Probiotic
Probiotics are found in fermented foods and supplements.
Including kimchi in your diet is an effective way to consume natural probiotics.
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Prebiotic
Prebiotics are natural, plant-based fibers found in many foods.
Consuming whole grains is an excellent way to add prebiotics to your diet.
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Probiotic
Probiotics contribute to a healthy digestive system and immune response.
Drinking kefir provides probiotics that enhance both digestion and immunity.
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Prebiotic
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that nourish gut bacteria.
Including bananas in your diet provides prebiotics that help maintain a healthy gut.
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Probiotic
Probiotics help balance the gut's microbial community.
Taking a probiotic supplement can aid in restoring gut flora after antibiotic treatment.
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Prebiotic
Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestine.
Adding onions to your salad not only enhances flavor but also provides prebiotics for gut health.
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Probiotic
Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to digestive health.
Consuming yogurt daily is a great way to intake probiotics for a healthier gut.
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Prebiotic
Of or relating to the conditions prevailing on earth before the appearance of living things.
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Probiotic
Probiotics can alleviate digestive disorders like IBS.
People with IBS may find relief by integrating probiotic-rich foods into their diet.
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Prebiotic
Of or relating to any of various nondigestible carbohydrates that promote the growth of probiotics.
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Probiotic
A nutraceutical containing live bacteria or yeast that supplements normal gastrointestinal flora, given especially after depletion of flora caused by infection or ingestion of an antibiotic drug.
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Prebiotic
Any of various nondigestible carbohydrates, especially oligosaccharides, that promote the growth of probiotics.
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Prebiotic
A substance in food that is hard to digest and promotes the growth of beneficial intestinal microorganisms.
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Probiotic
(bacteriology) A food or dietary supplement, such as a yogurt, containing live bacteria for therapeutic reasons.
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Probiotic
Describing any dietary supplement that contains live bacteria for therapeutic purposes.
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Prebiotic
Prebiotics are essential for maintaining a balanced gut microbiome.
A diet rich in legumes provides prebiotics, supporting a diverse and healthy gut flora.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can probiotics improve mood?
Some studies suggest a connection between gut health and mood.
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Can probiotics cause side effects?
Rarely, they can cause bloating or digestive discomfort.
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Are prebiotics safe for everyone?
Generally, but those with certain health conditions should consult a doctor.
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Can probiotics prevent infections?
They can boost immunity and reduce susceptibility to some infections.
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Can you take prebiotics and probiotics together?
Yes, they can work synergistically for gut health.
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Do probiotics help with lactose intolerance?
They can improve lactose digestion.
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What are prebiotics?
Non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria.
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Do prebiotics help with weight loss?
Indirectly, by improving gut health and metabolism.
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Are all probiotics the same?
No, different strains offer different benefits.
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How do probiotics survive stomach acid?
Some are formulated to withstand acidic environments.
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Can you get prebiotics from supplements?
Yes, prebiotic supplements are available.
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Can prebiotics help with nutrient absorption?
Yes, particularly minerals like calcium.
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How long should you take probiotics?
Depends on the condition; consult a healthcare provider.
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Can prebiotics cure diseases?
They don't cure, but can support overall health.
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Are probiotics found in non-dairy foods?
Yes, in fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi.
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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