eTopical Precious Finds
By now many of us have heard of probiotics and what they can do for digestive health. But prebiotics?
If you’re wondering what the difference between prebiotics and probiotics is, here’s the scoop.
Probiotics are live bacteria found in certain food and supplements. Prebiotics are types of carbs that humans can’t digest. The beneficial bacteria in your gut eat this fiber helping them to grow.
Probiotics and prebiotics work together to boost digestive health.
Prebiotics are mainly fibers and natural sugars and many of them are vegan friendly. Here are a few that are recommended.
10 Prebiotics to Try
Chicory
Chicory is a root that’s high in inulin which is a prebiotic fiber. It aids digestion and relieves constipation and it also has antioxidant properties.
Jerusalem Artichokes
Artichokes have a high fiber content and they are low in carbohydrates. They help keep blood sugar levels stable. They are effective in increasing good bacteria in the gut.
Garlic
Garlic promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut while keeping bad bacteria from multiplying.
Onions, Shallots, Spring Onions and Leeks
These four vegetables all belong to the same family and are powerful prebiotics. They aid digestion, increase beneficial gut bacteria and they are rich in antioxidants.
Savoy Cabbage
Savoy cabbage is terrific for digestion and has a healthy dose of vitamins B and C.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are rich in fiber, protein, iron, and B vitamins.
Lentils
Lentils have a high fiber content that makes them filling and great for digestion. They are also a great source of protein and potassium.
Bananas
Bananas contain naturally occurring fibers that boost good bacteria in the gut and reduce bloating.
Custard Apples
Custard apples are high in antioxidants making them excellent for boosting heart and brain health. They may also lower cholesterol. They are a great choice when it comes to increasing good bacteria and lowering harmful bacteria in the gut.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a prebiotic fruit that is great for digestion. Another bonus, its high water content increases hydration in the body.
Supplements for Digestive Health
At this point, you may be wondering if adding the right foods to your diet is the only way to increase prebiotic intake. After all, you may not enjoy all these foods making it difficult to include them in your daily menu.
If that’s the case, you’re in luck because Gaia Herbs makes a Microbiome Food supplement in powder form that can easily be added to beverages to give you the prebiotics you need.
Gaia Herbs is a company known for developing high quality plant medicines with optimal purity and potency. Its Microbiome Food supplement is a plant based prebiotic powder with cinnamon and ginger to support digestive health. It provides the nourishment you need in supporting healthy bacteria in your digestive system.
Digestive health is so important. The right combination of probiotics and prebiotics will reduce bad bacteria and boost good bacteria to keep your system running smoothly. How will you be adding them to your diet to enjoy optimal wellness?
