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- PREbiotics are a type of insoluble fiber that travels through the gut without being completely broken down.
- Prebiotics are fermented in the colon by microflora (bacteria and microorganisms that live in the digestive tract) and are used for food for PRObiotics (“good” bacteria found in the gut).
- Used as “fuel” for probiotics
- Along with probiotics, maintain balance in gut health: keep “bad” bacteria down and “good” bacteria up.
- Gut and mental health go hand in hand: when the gut is functioning properly, normally your sleep improves, which in turn improves cognitive ability and the reduction of stress and balance of hormones.
- Other benefits of prebiotics include:
- Reduced risk of autoimmune diseases and colon cancer
- Prebiotics help increase the absorption of nutrients, which can build up the immune system
- Regular bowel movements
- Can help to treat diarrhea, IBS, and leaky gut
- Reduced inflammation throughout the body
- A high fiber diet can reduce allergic reactions
- An healthy digestive tract can metabolize and correctly store fats, including in the arteries, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Prebiotics can also help maintain a healthy blood pressure, due to balancing effects of electrolytes, like potassium, and minerals.
- Reduced risk of obesity
- Prebiotics are found in fibrous foods which increase the feeling of satiety
- Raw garlic, jicama, asparagus and leeks
- Jerusalem artichokes
- Raw or cooked onions
- Raw honey
- Whole grain unprocessed wheat
- Chicory root (found in some coffees, and teas)
