Most
of us have probably heard of probiotics and prebiotics in recent days,
but do you happen to know what they are exactly and how they can be
beneficial to your health? If you have some knowledge about nutrition,
you will understand the prominence of prebiotics and probiotics, which
aids in health improvement.
Prebiotics are non-digestible food components which are
natural and acts as an excellent support for the natural growth of
useful bacteria in the human body. They are termed as good bacteria
promoters. Consumption of the prebiotic food will enhance calcium level
in the body, and they are also responsible for gastrointestinal health
improvement. There is no necessity to consume separate pills for
prebiotic development; they are available in certain food items like
onions, garlic, bananas, soybeans, whole-wheat foods, asparagus,
artichokes and much more.
Probiotics are nothing but good bacteria which are
naturally available in the body and are responsible for repopulation of
intestinal bacteria. Probiotics are also responsible for management of
bowel syndrome symptoms. Other than these, probiotics will help in the
prevention of allergic symptoms, reduction of lactose intolerance etc.
Probiotics are available in non-dairy food products like miso, cultured
non-dairy yogurts, kimchi etc.
Dt.
Shilpa Mittal
B.H.Sc (Food Science & Nutrition), M.H.Sc (Food Science & Nutrition)
Dietitian/Nutritionist, Mumbai
•
22 years experience
Advantages of Prebiotics and Probiotics
Prebiotics:
- Reduces the symptoms of asthma.
- Prevents eczema in children.
- Controls the development of colorectal cancer.
- Improves immune system
- Normalizes the bowel function.
Probiotics:
- Improves immune system.
- Helps in the digestion process.
- Helps in nutrient absorption.
- Helps in detoxification.
- Improves health.
Other than the above-listed benefits, prebiotics and probiotics offer
multiple benefits. Probiotics present in the body will work round the
clock balancing both good and bad bacteria within the GI tract and
prevents numerous problems like the poor elimination of waste, poor
digestion, stress, oral contraceptives, etc. Overall, both prebiotics
and probiotics are highly essential for humans to improve their health.
There are many probiotic and prebiotic supplements available in the
market, but it is advisable for consumption of probiotics and prebiotics
in a natural way by adding probiotic and prebiotic enriched food items
to your daily diet.