Prebiotic Supplements and Foods

We hear about probiotics (friendly bacteria found in the gut) quite often, but rarely do we hear much about prebiotics. Prebiotics are equally as important for they are what feeds probiotics.

Prebiotics are nondigestible nutrients that provide the right environment for probiotics to grow, and thrive in. These fiber like substances are selectively used to increase the number of probiotics as well as their ability to do their job. Just like spinach gave Popeye super powers, prebiotics give probiotics a boost of power!

What makes a prebiotic? Dr. Yim's criteria for prebiotics:

What makes a prebiotic a super power? There are basically five criteria for making a good prebiotic:

• It needs to be able to resist break down from stomach acid or enzymes,
• It is selectively fermented by a specific type of bacteria,
• It stimulates the growth and activity of good bacteria in the gut,
• It is safe to consume,
• And it is stable when heated or dried.

Foods that Are Prebiotic

Certain foods contain prebiotics, they are:

• leek
• asparagus
• chicory
• Jerusalem artichoke
• garlic
• artichoke
• onion
• wheat
• oat
• and soybean

The quantity of prebiotic in these foods is not great. A more effective method of consuming enough prebiotics would be through supplementation.

Supplementation

Many foods like cereals, breads, nutrition bars, ice cream, etc. have added prebiotics. However, as many of these items also contain preservatives, artificial or natural flavours, sugar and fat, it may be healthier to look at supplementing with a formula created for all round good health. Dr. Yim recommends Greens First, a green drink that contains pre and probiotics as well as over 15 servings of fruit, vegetables, and herbs in one serving. He also prescribes a supplement he highly recommends for optimal digestive health in the form of a symbiotic, which combines both pre and probiotics.

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