Understanding Probiotics vs Prebiotics

Gut health is a trending topic, but the terms can be confusing. What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

• **Probiotics:** These are the *live beneficial bacteria* themselves. You can find them in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and kimchi. They add to the population of good bacteria in your gut.

• **Prebiotics:** This is the *food* for the bacteria. Prebiotics are types of dietary fiber that humans cannot digest, but the good bacteria in your gut can. Sources include garlic, onions, bananas, oats, and apples.

For a truly healthy microbiome, you need both. Think of probiotics as the seeds and prebiotics as the fertilizer.