Cultured Combos: Probiotics + Prebiotics

We here a lot about probiotics but did you know that prebiotics are important too? Let’s first define what probiotics and prebiotics are.

Probiotics help our bodies fend off harmful bacteria, supports our immune and digestive systems, produces vitamins B12 and K, and eases diarrhea related to viral infections and antibiotic use. They may even help reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease and certain cancers. Probitotics are shed every few days as the gut lining is replaced. Thus, it is best to consume them regularly.

Prebiotics include certain types of fiber the body cannot digest. They fuel the activity of good bugs. Additionally, prebiotics may also help boost absorption of some minerals, including calcium. Prebiotics occur naturally in some plant foods and may also be added to packaged foods, such as snack bars fortified with prebiotic fiber inulin. Increasing your intake of prebiotics slowly to suggested to prevent temporary discomfort such as gas and bloating.

To reap the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics, you don’t have to consume them at the same time but these are some tasty ideas to make it easy to get both in your diet (Probiotic is listed first/Prebiotic is listed second):

Low-fat yogurt + sliced banana
Frozen yogurt + blueberries
Greek yogurt vegetable dip + blanched asparagus spears
Stawberry kefir + Granola
Yogurt fruit smoothie + flaxseed

If you want to gain probiotic shopping savvy-ness, check the label for a statement that says the product contains live and active cultures. Keep the product properly refrigerated and consume it by its “best before” date. You can also ask your doctor for a recommended, clinically tested probiotic pill. Remember that not all probiotics are created equally and different strains may not produce the same effects.

Credit to Building Good Bacteria in Publix FamilyStyle (Oct./Nov. 2014)

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Litsa @How to Have it All

Litsa is a stay at home mom to a beautiful little girl. She is a native of Greece and now resides in Tennessee. As a former teacher, Litsa wears many hats that it takes to make a home a functioning home!