What is Prebiotic Fiber?

Prebiotics and Probiotics are not the same

Prebiotic fiber and gut health are closely linked. Prebiotic fiber is a type of indigestible dietary fiber that promotes the selective growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. It supports digestion, nutrient absorption and overall well-being.

Prebiotics are not the same as probiotics:

• Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, that provide health benefits when eaten in the right amounts. They pass through the gut but do not stay there permanently.
• Prebiotics, in contrast, selectively feed the good bacteria already living in your gut. These fibers encourage beneficial bacteria to multiply. As a result, prebiotics help keep your microbiota balanced. This balance is linked to better digestion, stronger immunity and metabolic health.

Supporting gut health is essential. It helps with digestion, nutrient absorption and immune balance. Prebiotic fibers feed beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria then produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These SCFAs play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut environment.

Proven Prebiotics

Prebiotic fiber and gut health are gaining more attention in nutrition science. Researchers continue to explore how different fibers influence the microbiome and overall wellness. In fact, only three prebiotics meet the latest scientific definition from the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP):

• Inulin
• Oligofructose/Fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS)
• Galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS)

These prebiotic fibers are found naturally in foods such as chicory root, garlic, onions, leeks and asparagus. Including foods rich in prebiotic fiber helps to maintain a healthy gut microbiome and improve overall gut health. Learn more about how dietary fiber benefits digestion.

Proven Prebiotics: Inulin, Oligofructose and Galacto-oligosaccharide