While these two words may sound similar, they are in fact different. Prebiotics are mostly fiber that humans cannot digest. They provide food for the bacteria in probiotics. Probiotics are live good bacteria that can be found in food and supplements and help balance the gut flora. This gut microbiome is teaming with life, and can affect everything from immune system function to fighting against anxiety and depression. For those with IBD in particular, using prebiotics and probiotics is a logical therapeutic approach, and studies in animals have even shown that gut flora and gut inflammation go hand in hand.Â
Since prebiotics are mostly indigestible fiber, you can easily find them in food. While you can purchase supplements, adding specific foods is often easier and less expensive. You can find abundant prebiotics in foods like; peas, bananas, berries, asparagus, onion, leeks, and garlic. By adding these fibers, you are providing food for your probiotic bacteria. While your body is unable to digest these fibers, the probiotics can. This process helps support immune function and better digestion. Things people with IBD usually need both of!Â
Probiotics can come in many forms as well. However, many foods that have good probiotics are filled with added sugars. Some of these include; kombucha, kefir, pickled vegetables, and kimchi. Since it is extremely difficult to find these foods premade and SCD compliant, I recommend taking a probiotic supplement. People with IBD need higher counts of probiotic bacteria, and as such there are several probiotics made specifically for those with IBD. I have personally had great success with Costco’s brand of probiotics, located in their pharmacy. It has 112.5 billion bacteria per capsule, between 50-75 billion more than regular probiotics. The other main brand for IBD patients is VSL#3 (now Visbiome).Â
While both prebiotics and probiotics are beneficial for everyone, there is research starting to emerge in support of these specifically for those with IBD. Prebiotics have actually been shown to change the physical composition of intestinal microflora bacteria in animals. It also changes the mucosal response which can help with calming down inflammation in the gut. We also have evidence that our gut microflora is directly linked to development of chronic gut inflammation. This is where altering the gut flora with prebiotics and probiotics come in. While we know both of these are beneficial, research is just starting to appear on this topic, and more testing will need to be done.Â
While we may not have all the scientific research for IBD and prebiotics and probiotics; we do know that they aid in digestion, improving gut flora, lowering gut inflammation, and improving immune function. Prebiotics can easily be found in food, where probiotics may be better as a supplement for those with IBD. Still not sure about it? Talk to your specialist or nutritionist about good pre and probiotics and see what a difference they can make for you. Your gut will thank you!Â
Want to check out the research for yourself? Click HERE, HERE, & HERE!Â
Note: * This is NOT an affiliate post. I do not receive anything for promoting or recommending things. *Â