Gut health is a hot topic these days and for a good reason. Our digestive system plays an essential role in our overall well-being. That’s why it’s important to keep your gut healthy by following a balanced diet and taking the right amount of prebiotics, probiotics, and other dietary supplements. This is even more important for women who are trying to lose weight. But if you are unfamiliar with these terms, you may be wondering: what is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics? Don’t worry – let me break it down for you in the following blog post.
Probiotics and Prebiotics: An Overview
The primary difference between probiotics and prebiotics lies in their structure and function. To put it simply, probiotics are live beneficial bacteria found in certain foods and supplements, while prebiotics is specialized plant fibers that act as food for these beneficial bacteria.
Probiotics: The Live Beneficial Bacteria
Probiotics are essentially the good bacteria your gut needs to maintain a healthy balance. They aid digestion, boost immunity, and even support mental health. Additionally, probiotics may help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and regulating hormones that control hunger. You can find probiotics in a variety of foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso.
Although there is not enough evidence at this time to recommend for or against taking probiotic supplements, some manufactures have specific supplements designed to provide a high concentration of these helpful bacteria. Often the placebo effect is 20% of a medication’s effectiveness, so these may work well for you. Just make sure to follow the guide for mindful eating if you plan on taking probiotic pills as the addition of being present and mindful of your body has more evidence as a weight loss aid.
Prebiotics: The Fuel for Probiotics
Prebiotics work hand-in-hand with probiotics by providing the essential nutrition that these beneficial bacteria need to thrive in your gut. In essence, prebiotics acts as a fertilizer, stimulating the growth and activity of the good bacteria in your digestive system. The common sources of prebiotics include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, particularly those rich in fiber like chicory root, garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas, and oats.
I usually recommend to my clients that they focus on consuming more of these types of foods in order to increase their prebiotic intake. Prebiotic pills can help, but there is not enough evidence for me to recommend one over any other at this time. The best part is that they are not only packed with prebiotics, but they also provide a plethora of other health benefits like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Effects on the Gut, Overall Health, and Weightloss!
Probiotics and prebiotics are both important for gut health. Probiotics help to support the beneficial bacteria already present in your gut, while prebiotics provides them with the energy and nutrients they need to function optimally. Together, these work to maintain a healthy balance of microflora in your digestive system, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent certain illnesses. Some small studies have shown that taking a probiotic supplement may also improve mood, cognitive performance, and even skin health.
So now that we know the basics about these two, well then, how does it help women’s weight loss? When it comes to weight loss specifically, probiotics and prebiotics may both play a role. The probiotic bacteria in your digestive system are responsible for breaking down and absorbing nutrients, which can help reduce fat storage. Additionally, they can influence hormones like leptin and ghrelin, which control hunger and satiety.
Meanwhile, the prebiotics in your gut may help you feel full for longer, reducing your cravings and helping to regulate your appetite. Combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, taking probiotics and prebiotics can be an effective way to support your weight loss efforts. I suggest that my clients try adding a bit of everything (even the indulgent foods!) to their diet – with mindful and conscious eating. The key is not to overindulge and to listen to your body and to have a plan on what you want to eat when you are hungy.
To Wrap Up
By understanding the difference between pre and probiotics and incorporating them into a balanced diet, you can be on your way to a healthy weight and gut balance! So give it a go! As a healthcare professional specializing in women’s weight loss in Spokane, I highly recommend focusing on and combining a varied, healthy diet, regular exercise, and mindful eating in order to achieve the best results. With the right combination of these, you can look and feel your best in no time! Meanwhile, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help!
