What Are Prebiotics?

They mainly consist of fiber orcomplex carbohydratesthat your body cannot digest.

you might find prebiotics in foods like garlic and asparagus, as well as prebiotic supplements.

Health Benefits of Prebiotics

Prebiotics are components of plant-based foods that cannot be digested.

Once eaten, they are degraded in thesmall intestineby healthy bacteria that grow and thrive on them.

The role of prebiotics in general health is uncertain.

Study results to date have been mixed.

A 2013 study reported that a higher intake of prebiotics can actually make IBS symptoms worse.

Some studies suggest that prebiotics, particularly fructan-oligosaccharides, can help ease gut inflammation and IBD symptoms.

Most prebiotics can be safely consumed without side effects.

Eating whole grains and plenty of fruits and vegetables is often the best way to reach this goal.

Many prebiotic supplements provide a dose of around four to five grams per day.

If you take a prebiotic supplement, start slowly to see how your body reacts.

If gas or bloating occurs, cut the dose in half.

Synbiotic therapy is the combined use of prebiotics and probiotics.

Because probiotics are short-lived, prebiotics can help maintain probiotic levels in the gut.

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Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025.

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