Prebiotic

Definition

Prebiotics are non-digestible food fibers that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial intestinal microbiota bacteria.

How it works

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are the main prebiotics. Undegraded in the small intestine, they arrive intact in the colon where they serve as a substrate for bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, producing beneficial short-chain fatty acids.

Role

Favor the growth of beneficial bacteria and the production of short-chain fatty acids.

Examples

• Garlic, onion, leek, asparagus, green banana, artichoke, chicory

Recommendations

Gradually increase prebiotic consumption to avoid initial bloating.

Key takeaway

Prebiotics are the food for probiotics — without them, good bacteria do not survive.

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