What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

Probiotics and prebiotics are both important for the health of the gut microbiome, but they have different functions and work in different ways.

Probiotics are living microorganisms, usually bacteria or yeasts, that have beneficial effects on health when consumed in sufficient quantities. Common types of probiotics include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces boulardii.

Probiotics promote a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria and aid in digestion and improve nutrient absorption.

Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that promote the growth and activity of beneficial intestinal bacteria. They act as food for these bacteria. They are usually forms of fiber such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), inulin, and resistant starch.

Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, which can help maintain healthy intestinal flora.

Both prebiotics and probiotics claim to promote overall health and immunity. They do indeed have an effect on the intestinal flora and the intestinal microbiome. The intestinal flora and the intestinal microbiome of healthy people differ from that of people with less good health or people with certain conditions. But there is little scientific evidence that administering prebiotics or probiotics will also influence immunity or certain conditions.

Source: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/prebiotics-vs-probiotics-whats-the-difference

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-08-05 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024