The main difference between probiotics and prebiotics, and from which all the others derive, It is in the nature of both .
Probiotics are live microorganisms that we introduce into our digestive system. We consume foods containing bacteria or yeast so that they reach our intestines, although they can also be taken in pill form, i.e., as medication.
Prebiotics , on the other hand, do not contain live microorganisms. Prebiotics are made up of plant fibers that stimulate the growth of bacteria already in our intestines. In other words, we are not adding new microorganisms, but rather enhancing the development of the ones we already have. We cannot digest these fibers, but bacteria can.
Where can we find them?
The best-known source of probiotics is yogurt, as it has live microorganisms. ("Lactobacillus" and "Bifidobacterium") that help improve our intestinal microbiota. Other fermented milks are also a good source of probiotics, as are foods enriched with bacteria (such as sauerkraut). Probiotics can also be found in medications or in supplement form.
In the case of prebiotics , bacteria aren't required in the food. Therefore, they are easier to obtain. Prebiotics are found naturally in many fruits and vegetables: asparagus, bananas, garlic, artichokes, tomatoes, leeks, wheat, and onions. All of these foods contain fiber that we can't digest but that helps the microbiota grow. Prebiotics can also be obtained through supplements.
When are they used?
Although there are exceptions, We can say that probiotics are for reversing, while prebiotics are for preventing .
Although foods containing them are consumed daily, probiotics in medicinal form are used when the microbiota has been altered due to a gastrointestinal infection or antibiotic use. Therefore, probiotics are useful for repopulating bacterial communities and preventing new pathogens from establishing themselves in the intestines.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are generally used more as a preventative measure. Eating a diet rich in plant fiber helps the microbiota develop properly and become more resistant to potential infections or alterations.
What are its benefits?
The benefits of probiotics depend on the bacterial species we introduce into our intestines , so each species (and even the strain) should be evaluated individually. Probiotics provide benefits by repopulating our microbiota, curing gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain), and boosting the immune system. There is still no conclusive evidence that probiotics are truly that beneficial, as some studies have not fully confirmed that they significantly improve intestinal health.
Prebiotics aren't as invasive to our intestines because we're not introducing live microorganisms; we're simply helping the ones we already have grow better. Therefore, their benefits (which are more proven) include: improving intestinal transit, stimulating the immune system, promoting vitamin synthesis, preventing constipation, reducing gas, improving calcium and iron absorption, reducing the risk of colorectal cancer, and more.
Remember that prevention is better than cure
