Prebiotics vs. Probiotics

You may have heard somebody talk about probiotics in yogurt or even the prebiotics in a banana. But what do these terms actually mean? Let's find out.

Probiotics are live bacteria, and they are typically found in yogurt and dairy products. Now, the word "bacteria" is generally looked upon with wariness and repulsion. But rest assured; not all bacteria are "bad" for you. Probiotics, for instance, are actually good for you. There is encouraging evidence that suggests that probiotics can help boost your immune system, support and improve intestinal function, and alleviate various digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and certain intestinal infections. Foods that contain probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, soft cheeses (like Gouda), sourdough bread, sour pickles, and tempeh, among others. But it's important to remember that probiotics are often weak, and they have to "compete" with many other species of bacteria already in the stomach.

That's where prebiotics come in. Prebiotics are natural, non-digestible food ingredients that help the beneficial bacteria in your stomach. They are important because, as we learned before, probiotics need some support, lest they perish by heat or the intensity of your stomach acid. Some foods that provide prebiotics include bananas, asparagus, oatmeal, and legumes. Mixed foods that contain these good bacteria promoters along with probiotics, like yogurt with bananas, might be especially beneficial, as this provides good bacteria for your stomach and allows those same bacteria to thrive.

And there's more good news. Liquid Health™ products contain whole foods and blends of fruits and vegetables containing prebiotics, like our Daily Multiple and Women's Multi supplements, which are infused with honey and whole food sea vegetation blends, and our Children's Complete Multiple and Prenatal Multi supplements, which contain fruit and vegetable blends with prebiotic foods. Taking our supplements in addition to eating synergistic meals with probiotic and prebiotic foods can only do you good.

If you are looking for more information, or you are interested in carrying or purchasing our products, please do not hesitate to call us at 800.995.6607 or send us an e-mail at customerservice@liquidhealth.us.

Sources/Information:
http://www.prebiotin.com/prebiotics/probiotic-or-prebiotic/
http://www.eatright.org/Public/content.aspx?id=6442477443
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/consumer-health/expert-answers/probiotics/faq-20058065
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/1-9331-1/top-10-probiotic-foods-to-add-to-your-diet.html
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/probiotics-10/slideshow-probiotics
http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/features/what-are-probiotics