Probiotics and Prebiotics are not the same: know their differences

The function of probiotics and prebiotics is similar, since broadly speaking, both are responsible for keeping the intestinal microbiota healthy or reversing any alterations that may occur. However, there are some differences between them that are important to know , since it is very likely that one day we will need to take one of these two.

The main difference between probiotics and prebiotics, and from which all the others are derived, It is in the nature of both .

Probiotics are live microorganisms that we introduce into our digestive system. We consume foods that have bacteria or yeast so that they reach our intestines, although they can also be consumed in pill form, that is, as medicine.

Prebiotics , on the other hand, do not have live microorganisms. Prebiotics are made up of plant fibers that stimulate the growth of bacteria that already inhabit our intestines. That is, we are not adding new microorganisms, but we are enhancing the development of those we already have. We cannot digest these fibers, but bacteria can.

In short, probiotics are live microorganisms and prebiotics are foods that nourish microorganisms.

Where can we find them?

The best-known source of probiotics is yogurt, as it has live microorganisms. (“Lactobacillus” and “Bifidobacterium”) that help improve the microbiota of our intestines. 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 the form of supplements.

In the case of prebiotics , it is not necessary for there to be bacteria in the food. Therefore, obtaining it is easier. Prebiotics are found naturally in many fruits and vegetables: asparagus, bananas, garlic, artichokes, tomatoes, leeks, wheat, onions. All of these foods have fiber that we cannot digest but that does help the microbiota grow. Prebiotics can also be obtained through supplements.

When they used?

Although there are exceptions, We can say that probiotics are for reversal, while prebiotics are for prevention .

Although the foods that contain them are consumed daily, probiotics in the form of medicine are used when, due to a gastrointestinal infection or the consumption of antibiotics, there has been an alteration of the microbiota. Therefore, probiotics are useful in repopulating bacterial communities and preventing new pathogens from settling in the intestines.

Prebiotics, on the other hand, are usually used more as prevention. Eating a diet rich in plant fibers helps the microbiota develop properly and be more resistant to possible infections or alterations.

What are its benefits?

The benefits of probiotics depend on the bacterial species that we are introducing into our intestines , so each species (and even the strain) should be evaluated individually. Probiotics give us 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 really that beneficial, as some studies do not confirm that they significantly improve the health of the intestines.

Prebiotics are not as invasive for our intestines since we are not introducing live microorganisms, we are simply helping the ones we already have grow better. Therefore, its benefits (which are more proven) include: improving intestinal transit, stimulating the immune system, promoting the synthesis of vitamins, avoiding constipation, reducing gas, improving the absorption of calcium and iron, reducing the risk of suffering from colorectal cancer, etc.

Remember that prevention is better than cure