Prebiotics are fibers that provide food for the growth of good bacteria, such as garlic, onion, banana. Probiotics are real live bacteria that keep digestion healthy, such as curd, buttermilk, pickles. Together, both keep the stomach healthy and support the immune system.

Understanding the difference between prebiotics and probiotics is very important for gut health. Probiotics are actually good bacteria that are found in the digestive system and improve digestion. These bacteria are already present in the body, but they can also be increased through fermented foods like curd, buttermilk, kefir. Probiotics support the immune system and prove helpful in controlling many stomach related problems.

On the other hand, prebiotics are those fibers that act as food not for our body but for probiotics i.e. good bacteria. These fibers go into the intestines and increase the growth of those good bacteria. Prebiotics are mostly found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains such as banana, garlic, onion and oats. That means for a healthy gut, both prebiotics and probiotics are necessary together.

What are prebiotics?

Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that our body cannot digest on its own, but they act as food for the good bacteria present in our gut (intestines). Eating them provides energy to the gut microbiota, which helps them grow in a healthy way. Usually these are fibers such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides, etc., which are found in onions, garlic, bananas, oats, and green leafy vegetables.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are actually live bacteria that, if taken in the right amount, provide health benefits to our body. These bacteria go to our intestines and maintain the natural balance there. When our gut balance is disturbed—such as after taking antibiotics—then probiotics help restore it. They are found in yogurt, buttermilk, kimchi, kefir, pickles and some supplements.

What is the difference between the two?

Both prebiotics and probiotics are important for our digestive system, but their roles are different. Prebiotics are food for bacteria, while probiotics are bacteria themselves. In a way, you can consider prebiotics as fertilizers and probiotics are plants. Together, both improve gut health.

Why are both of these important?

A healthy gut not only controls digestion but also the immune system, mood and metabolism. If there are no good bacteria in the gut or they do not get the right nutrition, then problems like inflammation, constipation, acidity and even depression can occur. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balance of both prebiotics and probiotics.

How to take advantage of these?

Adding prebiotic and probiotic foods to your daily diet is an easy and effective way. Eating banana with curd in the morning is a great combination. Also, include oats, onion, garlic and fermented foods in your diet. If these are not included in your diet, then supplements can also be taken on the advice of a doctor.

Everyone's body is different, so some people may not be able to eat fermented or fiber-rich foods. You may experience some gas or bloating initially, but this usually resolves after some time. If the symptoms worsen, consult a doctor.