What's the difference between a probiotic and prebiotic
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Understanding the Difference Between Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics: Live Beneficial Microorganisms
Definition and Sources
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. These beneficial bacteria are commonly found in dairy products like yogurt and other fermented foods. The most frequently used probiotic strains belong to the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, but other strains like Saccharomyces cerevisiae and certain Escherichia coli and Bacillus species are also used .
Mechanisms of Action
Probiotics exert their beneficial effects through several mechanisms. They can enhance the gut barrier, compete with pathogenic bacteria, and modulate the immune system. Probiotics are believed to work by colonizing the gut and outcompeting harmful bacteria, a phenomenon known as colonization resistance. They may also produce substances like lactic acid, which lowers the pH and inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms .
Health Benefits
Probiotics have been shown to alleviate conditions such as lactose intolerance, reduce the risk of rotavirus-induced diarrhea, and potentially lower the risk of colon cancer. They are also used to treat acute viral gastroenteritis and prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children. However, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy in treating other conditions like Helicobacter pylori gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome .
Prebiotics: Non-Digestible Food Ingredients
Definition and Sources
Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth or activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Common prebiotics include fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, and galacto-oligosaccharides, which are found in foods like onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, and bananas. Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are relatively stable and can reach the gut unchanged .
Mechanisms of Action
Prebiotics serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting their growth and activity. When these prebiotics are fermented in the colon, they produce short-chain fatty acids that have various health benefits, including enhancing calcium absorption and increasing fecal weight. This fermentation process also helps in increasing the population of beneficial bacteria like bifidobacteria, which can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria .
Health Benefits
The health benefits of prebiotics include relief from constipation, suppression of diarrhea, and potential reduction in the risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. However, the evidence is still emerging, and more research is needed to substantiate these claims. Prebiotics are also being explored for their role in preventing atopic eczema and common infections in infants .
Synbiotics: The Combination of Probiotics and Prebiotics
Definition and Potential Benefits
Synbiotics are products that combine both probiotics and prebiotics. The idea is that the prebiotics will enhance the survival and activity of the probiotics, potentially leading to synergistic health benefits. This combination aims to improve the survival of beneficial bacteria as they pass through the upper gastrointestinal tract and enhance their effects in the colon .
Conclusion
In summary, probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms that can improve gut health and overall well-being, while prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that promote the growth of these beneficial bacteria. Both have unique mechanisms of action and offer various health benefits, but they can also be combined into synbiotics for potentially enhanced effects. Further research is needed to fully understand their individual and combined benefits.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic