Prebiotics

[Guest guest]

I have added prebiotics to my diet, taking in conjunction with probiotics.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/prebiotics/AN02032

http://www.swansonvitamins.com/SWU520/ItemDetail

What are prebiotics? How are they different from probiotics, and what health

benefits do they offer?

Answer

from Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.

Prebiotics are nondigestible nutrients that are used as an energy source by

certain beneficial bacteria that naturally live in your intestines. Prebiotics

are sometimes known as fermentable fiber.

Probiotics, in contrast, are the beneficial, or friendly, bacteria themselves.

By acting as a food source, prebiotics give the probiotic bacteria a chance to

exert their influence. These friendly bacteria may have several health benefits,

from aiding digesting to boosting immunity. But stress, a poor diet, certain

medical conditions, medications and other factors may decrease the number of

healthy bacteria. Eating a diet that includes prebiotics and probiotics may help

restore these friendly bacteria.

The role of prebiotics in the treatment of disease is controversial, and more

studies are needed to determine their usefulness. But preliminary evidence shows

that prebiotics may have a role in:

Improving antibiotic-associated diarrhea

Improving traveler's diarrhea

Improving gastroenteritis

Normalizing bowel function

Improving colitis

Reducing irritable bowel problems

Aiding calcium absorption

Boosting your immune system

Prebiotics occur naturally in a variety of foods, especially high-fiber foods,

including certain fruits, vegetables and grains. The main food sources of

prebiotics include:

Artichokes

Bananas

Barley

Berries

Chicory

Dairy products

Flax

Garlic

Greens, such as dandelion greens, chard and kale

Honey

Leeks

Legumes

Onions

Wheat and whole grains, such as oatmeal

Prebiotics also are added to some dietary supplements and some processed foods,

such as yogurt, drink mixes and meal-replacement bars. Read food labels and

claims or seek out manufacturer Web sites to help identify which products

contain prebiotics. But keep in mind that not all products with naturally

occurring prebiotics are labeled that way. Prebiotic supplements can be

sprinkled on your food, stirred into beverages, or taken as capsules or tablets

that you swallow or chew.

There's no specific guideline on how many grams of prebiotics to consume. Some

studies suggest that you should get 3 to 8 grams a day to get the full benefits.

In some cases, use of prebiotics may cause intestinal gas. As always, check with

your doctor before taking any dietary or herbal supplements to make sure they're

safe for your situation.

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