Prebiotics are one of the most exciting technologies in gut health! Studies demonstrate that prebiotic supplements can work naturally in the gut, selectively nourishing beneficial ‘good bacteria’, which ferments dietary fibre. Beneficial bacteria, such as bifidobacteria, aid in digestion and help the body to produce the important and useful nutrients that it needs, including short chain fatty acids.
What are prebiotics
Benefits of prebiotics
Types of prebiotics
Natural prebiotics
Children & prebiotics
While most kinds of bacteria in the gut have a role to play in the body, many are less useful to us, or benign. Selective fermentation means that prebiotics can promote growth of these beneficial bacteria, without also feeding other types.
Benefits associated with a well-supported gut microbiome include:
- Boosting overall digestive health
- Improving the barrier function of the gut
- Supporting the immune system
- Reducing the inflammation and symptoms associated with a sensitive stomach
- Minimising the risk of developing diarrhoea
- Enhancing the body’s mineral and nutrient uptake
- Contributing positively to your mental health, including stress, anxiety and sleep health
- Increasing absorption of calcium to improve bone density
- Lowering some potential risk factors for cardiovascular disease
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are the most advanced form of prebiotics and are designed to alter the colonic microbiota in favour of a more beneficial composition.
In supporting a balanced, well-functioning gut microbiome, we could also be positively influencing wider bodily health!
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