We Are What We Eat Part 2

More about prebiotics and probiotics

We have about 10 trillion human cells in our body and around 100 trillion microbial cells (microbes, also known as bugs).

When there is a predominance of friendly bacteria, we glow with health; our weight stays at a healthy level, metabolism pulsates, our energy overflows, and we feel optimistic, clear, and focused. Our immune system is in terrific shape, helping keep off infections and illness.

When unfriendly bacteria dominate, however, it’s a constant struggle. We gain weight and can’t seem to lose it, we crave sugar, we’re vulnerable to yeast infections, colds, flu, acne, and numerous other symptoms. We feel fatigued. We might struggle with anxiety and depression. The unfriendly bacteria that hijack our microbiota undermine our health and well-being.

Prebiotics are just as important as Probiotics for gut health. Probiotics replenish, and Prebiotics nourish friendly bacteria. Prebiotics feed our friendly bacteria and help them proliferate on their own. Taking probiotics can be equated to seeding a garden. Taking prebiotics, by contrast, is like nourishing and watering that garden.

Prebiotics are the non-digestible carbohydrates that stimulate growth and activity of bacteria in our digestive systems. Prebiotics are found naturally in vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, carrots, garlic, onion, cauliflower, kale, radish, asparagus, artichoke, leeks, okra, tomatoes; turmeric, cinnamon and whole grains.

Probiotics are mostly bacteria, which assist in the maintenance of the natural balance of microorganisms (microflora) in the intestines. Therefore, prebiotics feed the probiotics. These probiotic bacteria reduce the harmful bacteria. Probiotics can prevent infections in the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. Live bacteria can be found in such probiotic foods as yogurt, kefir (fermented milk), kombucha (a fermented drink), sauerkraut, kimchee (a Korean fermented cabbage), and pickled vegetables of all types.

Probiotics and Prebiotics can build a solid foundation of health for us. We should consume fermented food or beverage every day, load up on Prebiotic-rich Superfoods. Our mood, mental clarity, and overall health will improve significantly.