How are probiotics and prebiotics different?

in our human intestines Filled with many microorganisms which type and quantity of microorganisms They all affect our health. Nowadays, “probiotics” and “prebiotics” are topics that many people are interested in. Even though the names sound similar But both play different roles when it comes to health.

What are probiotics and prebiotics?

• Probiotics are bacteria or yeast that are beneficial to the body. Helps in the functioning of the digestive system. And is ทางเข้า ufabet important for strengthening the immune system.
• Prebiotics (Prebiotics) are a type of carbohydrate. Most of it is dietary fiber that cannot be digested and absorbed by the human body. But prebiotics can be broken down by bacteria belonging to the probiotic group. Therefore, it is an important source of food that helps this group of bacteria grow.

Why are gut microbes important?

The main function of good microorganisms is to maintain balance in the body. Helps protect the body from foreign substances Fights harmful bacteria Including helping to support the functioning of the immune system. and control inflammation

Intestinal cells are an important barrier that protects the body from pathogens. Good microorganisms are an important part of the mucosal immune response. They can promote the function of innate immunity, including the process of capturing foreign substances by neutrophils (Phagocytic Activity of Neutrophils). ) and destruction of foreign substances in the killer cells (Cytotoxic Activity of NK Cells)

There are many studies reporting the benefits of probiotics. To help relieve inflammatory bowel disease (Inflammatory Bowel Disease, IBD) Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) helps prevent and reduce diarrhea caused by the use of antibiotics. However, microbial strains must be taken into account as well. Because each strain of microorganism has different benefits to the body, therefore, the diversity of bacteria in the intestines Therefore affecting the functioning of the immune system. Reduce the risk of obesity and many other matters

In addition, intestinal bacteria produce Vitamin K, which plays an important role in the blood clotting process. and short-chain fatty acids (SFA; Short-chain Fatty Acids) that are important nutrients for intestinal lining cells. Helps strengthen the intestinal wall, protecting the body from harmful substances and pathogens. Short-chain fatty acids also help reduce inflammation. And reduce the risk of cancer as well.

How does food affect the gut microbiome?

There are many factors that affect the microorganisms in the human body, such as genetics, age, environment, and food. The food we eat on a daily basis plays a very important role in the balance of good microorganisms. and the type that is not good in the intestines Starting from infancy Children who are breastfed promote good bacteria in their guts that have a positive effect on their immune systems. 

Food groups that are high in sugar and high in fat Affects the balance of bacteria in the intestines Make the number of bacteria Bacteroidetes decreased and Firmicutes increased. The ratio of these two groups of bacteria It is also associated with a higher body mass index (BMI). It can also result in other health problems such as insulin resistance. Therefore, eating the wrong food on a regular basis May cause bad bacteria to grow faster. While beneficial bacteria There are not enough numbers to prevent harm. In addition, the use of antibiotics It also has a negative effect on the good microorganisms in the intestines. Especially in children and teenagers. 

Food sources that contain probiotics and prebiotics

We can increase the amount of good microorganisms in our body. By eating foods that contain probiotics and prebiotics. on a regular basis 

• Examples of foods rich in probiotics include yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha fermented tea, kefir, miso, tempeh, etc., or products whose nutrition label states ‘contains microorganisms. ‘Living and Active Cultures’ 
• Examples of foods rich in prebiotics include legumes, oats, bananas, berries, asparagus, onions, garlic bulbs, leeks, Jerusalem artichoke, etc.