A lot of us may sometimes get confused between probiotics and prebiotics. This is because a lot of research and talk is done on probiotics. Although they both serve an important purpose individually important for our digestive system and, in turn, to us.
So, let’s get to know Prebiotics a bit more, shall we?!
- Prebiotics are a form of dietary fibre that when consumed allows the bacteria in your gut to provide nourishment to your colon cells.
They are those silent heroes who support and help us maintain a healthy gut. Having said that, not all dietary fibres qualify as prebiotics. They are indigestible fibres that feed the good bacteria acting as a food source.
- Regular consumption of prebiotic food improves your metabolic rate as well.
- Your body gets stronger to waive off the risk of certain allergies.
- Problems of constipation are reduced.
- Prebiotics also help lower the chances of intestinal inflammation.
- Safeguards the body in case of disease.
You can either involve prebiotics in your skincare products for amazing skin OR include various types of foods in your diet. Various prebiotic supplements are available in the market. Some qualified prebiotics include fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS). But, you can eat certain fruits and vegetables regularly to avoid taking supplements.
In this article, we will discuss the common PREBIOTIC SUPERFOODS that you must eat. Let’s go!
- Garlic
This flavorful spice slash vegetable has myriad benefits for our overall health. Usually, it is used as a herb to flavour savoury dishes. It is truly potent when consumed in its raw form. But, you can also attain its benefit by eating it cooked in your dishes.
Properties of garlic –
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Amazing source of inulin
- Also a good source of FOS
Garlic is great to lessen the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It produces beneficial Bifidobacteria in the gut.
2) Bananas
Bananas are rich in minerals, fiber, small amounts of inulin, and vitamins. Green bananas especially have a great prebiotic effect and they are also high in resistant starch. The calorie quotient in one banana is 105 and up to 3 grams of fiber and a buck lot of potassium. Bananas also help solve any bloating problem.
3) Oats
Whole oats also contain resistant starch and large amounts of beta-glucan fiber. Oats keep your blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check. They also keep your tummy filled for long, restricting you to eat more.
4) Apples
High in vitamin C and fiber, apples are also a great source of Pectin. It helps build up healthy bacteria in your gut. It also –
- Helps maintain or weight.
- Decrease inflammation
- Improve heart health
- Reduces the risk of asthma or any other pulmonary disorders
5) Onions
Onions are packed with flavonoids and antioxidants. They also contain FOS and inulin that strengthen your immune system and your gut health as well.
6) Flaxseeds
Another great source of prebiotics is this beauty right here. Regular consumption of flaxseeds ensures –
- Proper bowel movements,
- Boosts healthy gut bacteria,
- Helps regulate blood sugar and
- Absorbs the fat from the food you have ingested. They also have antioxidant and anticancer properties.
7) Cocoa
The theobroma cacao tree produces cocoa beans used to make chocolate, Cocoa powder. Cocoa butter, etc. It can be easily consumed in any form available. Plus, who doesn’t love chocolate? Cocoa has a rich source of flavanols. Its compounds help in boosting the good bacteria while eliminating the bad ones.
CONCLUSION –
We hope this article was insightful for you. Try and incorporate as much of these superfoods in your diet for nurturing a healthy microbiome. We are keener on bringing you closer to PREBIOTICS and its miraculous benefits for your body and skin. Research on its fuller impact is yet to be discovered. Till then, we bring you all that’s available out there. More such articles are coming your way, so stay tuned!
