top of page
Writer's pictureJaime Heer, FNTP, RWS

Prebiotics & Probiotics Simply Defined

Updated: Jun 17, 2020

Prebiotics are fibers that are non-digestible or only partially digestible. These fibers are food for the beneficial bacteria (aka probiotics) that live within your intestines. Eating a variety of prebiotic rich foods is essential to keeping your gut bacteria happy & healthy.

  • Raw Vegetables

  • Leafy Greens

  • Garlic & Onions

  • Jerusalum artichoke

  • Psyllium Husks

  • Jicama

  • Oats

  • Flaxseeds

  • Banana (under-ripe)


Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live within your gut. They are essential to your overall health because they are one of the first lines of defense against illness causing pathogens and are also critical to your body's ability to break down and absorb nutrients


from food. An imbalance of good gut bacteria will cause malnutrition and can lead to an array of symptoms including: bloating, gas, IBS, skin rash, acne, eczema, allergies, sinus congestion, fatigue, mood disorders, chronic inflammation, autoimmune disorders and other illness. Incorporating foods that are rich in probiotics in your daily diet is vital to digestion, boosting your immune system and preventing disease.

  • Raw Apple Cider Vinegar

  • Raw, Grass-Fed Plain Yogurt

  • Grass-Fed Dairy Kefir

  • Water Kefir

  • Fermented Veggies

  • Sauerkraut

  • Kombucha

  • Tempeh

  • Miso

  • Kimchi

  • Fresh, Wild Ferment Sourdough Bread (if tolerated & not too much)

Additional tips for nurturing your gut health:

  • Buy organic produce and pasture raised, grass fed poultry/meat & wild caught fish.

  • Stay hydrated with filtered water. 1/2 your body weight in ounces per day.

  • Avoid processed and refined foods.

  • Eat fermented foods.

  • Be active, get outside, play in the dirt.

  • Only take antibiotics when absolutely necessary.

  • Don't over sanitize.

  • Avoid over-eating.

  • Take a daily high quality probiotic.

29 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page