If you have heard of the many advantages of probiotics, then you should know how to ensure that you have them in your gut. Probiotics are helpful microbes that sustain our healthy body and keep it working. It is our first line against bad bacteria.
So that probiotics can be able to do their important functions, we need to nourish them. Fibers that the body cannot digest serve as food to probiotics and other beneficial bacteria in the gut. These are called prebiotics dr gundry. Prebiotics can be derived from many plant-based foods, such as bananas, garlic, chicory roots, dandelion greens, onion, asparagus, leeks, and many more. Here’s how prebiotic works for our overall well-being.
Activates the Immune System
Prebiotics help increase the population of beneficial microbes in the gut. These microorganisms stimulate the mucosal immune system. Prebiotics can also activate the GALT or gut –associated lymphoid tissues which can help us achieve a state of well-being. In addition, they aid reduce the risks of ailments.
Prevents Colorectal Cancer
Studies show that prebiotics can help in the prevention of colorectal cancer by modifying the composition of the microflora in the colon and rectal areas. Prebiotics also promote production of intestinal short-chain fatty acids or SCFA which have anti-cancer properties.
Relieves Constipation
When there is microbial imbalance in the gut, it may lead to constipation. By including prebiotics in your diet, more beneficial bacteria will be able to produce short-chain fatty acid that can help in increasing blood flow to the intestines, thereby improving intestinal motility.
Lowers Blood Pressure
Prebiotics have cholesterol-lowering effects mainly because of the SFCA. When short-chain fatty acids are metabolized in the liver, blood pressure is decreased. Prebiotics also help in the absorption of fats in the intestines.
Prevents Obesity
When there is disruption of glucose metabolism and fat absorption in the gut, obesity can be the result. The disruption can be caused by pathogenic microbes in the gut. With prebiotics, helpful bacteria can increase in number to fight off the pathogenic bacteria. Cravings for sugary foods can also be prevented when harmful bacteria are reduced.
Enhance Absorption of Minerals
Calcium and magnesium are minerals that are essential to our bones. With prebiotics, these minerals are easily absorbed. The short-chain fatty acid from the prebiotics acidifies the gut lumen which helps in increasing solubility of the minerals, making them more absorbable.
Many of us may not be very much aware of prebiotics. But knowing that they affect our overall well-being and how they can reduce our risks of some diseases, prebiotics should be taken seriously as a non-pharmaceutical alternative to make us healthy.