Probiotics and Prebiotics Support a Healthy Gut: a Short Guide

Wellness and skincare are more than following a well-balanced diet or choosing the right products. According to specialists, the beauty and health connection is more than meets the eye and goes deeper, all the way to a healthy gut.

Gut health is essential for many reasons, including your immune system. How so? Approximately 80 % of your immune system comes from your gut, as studies suggest. So, how do we support it? Probiotics and prebiotics are perfect for a start.

Here is what you need to know.

What’s the Difference?

Prebiotics are a food source for gut bacteria, while probiotics represent the bacteria found in your gut, also known as the microbiome. They can work together just fine and take care of your gut.

Alissia Zenhausern, NMD, a naturopathic physician at NMD Wellness of Scottsdale, explains:

“The idea behind using prebiotics was to provide the essential food source needed for bacteria to grow.”

Which Are the Benefits?

Probiotics and prebiotics are always in charge to keep your hormonal system, immune system, and digestive system healthy. And when all works properly, your skin becomes healthier.

Also, they can fight rosacea and acne, making your skin glow. Recent research has found that topical application of probiotics diminishes skin redness and sensitivity, reducing even the fine lines.

Some Precautions

• Not everyone can take probiotics: People with a compromised immune system are not advised to take probiotics.
• Make sure you eat first: You should always eat first before taking a probiotic or prebiotic. The acid from your stomach can destroy the bacteria as it moves through your digestive tract.
• Store some probiotics in the fridge: Read the label or ask a specialist if your probiotic product must be stored in the fridge. After all, probiotics are live bacteria.
• Don’t take too many: Ask a specialist first if you want to add prebiotics and probiotics to your routine. Many factors can influence your doses, such as your age, your immune system’s function, and the medications you already take.