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What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to the gut and the influence that gut bacteria have on our health.

Scientists are still investigating why gut bacteria play such an important role for our health and how this knowledge can be used optimally. As a result, more and more attention is being paid to probiotics. What not everyone knows is that prebiotics are also very important. What is the difference between the two?

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are bacteria found in fermented products such as yogurt, kimchi, and kombucha. Probiotics are similar to the good bacteria in your gut and therefore help your gut bacteria to maintain a good balance. They help prevent harmful bacteria from taking over and causing health problems, such as inflammation or infection.

Read also: This is how you ferment in 6 steps

What are prebiotics?

The name prebiotics is similar to probiotics, but there is a distinct difference. Probiotics alone won't do the job for you. You also need prebiotics. These are indigestible dietary fibers in grains, vegetables and fruit. These fibers stimulate the growth and activity of probiotics.