by Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the gut. They serve as food for healthy gut bacteria. This helps enhance digestive health and boost overall well-being. Prebiotics are increasingly being used as important components of dietary supplements.
What are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are fibres that reside in certain foods like asparagus, onion, garlic, bananas and whole grains. They are carbohydrates that escape digestion in the upper GI tract and stimulate growth/activity of beneficial gut bacteria in the large intestine. The two most common and extensively researched prebiotics are inulin and oligofructose.
Inulin
Inulin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in foods like chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke and garlic. It is a soluble fibre that nourishes bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, the two dominant groups of health-promoting bacteria in the gut. Inulin passes through the stomach and small intestine undigested, reaching the colon where it becomes food for the preexisting probiotic bacteria.
Oligofructose
Oligofructose is a short-chain fructan found in many fruits, vegetables, cereals and honey. It is synthesized from inulin extracted from chicory root. Like inulin, oligofructose is also a highly soluble fibre resistant to enzymes in the upper GI tract. It promotes growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in the colon through preferential fermentation.
Other Prebiotics
Other Prebiotics for Dietary Supplements that have shown promise include galactooligosaccharides derived from lactose, xylooligosaccharides from plant material and mannanoligosaccharides from yeast cell walls. Research on their health benefits is ongoing.
Effects of Prebiotics on Gut Microbiota
Prebiotics modify the composition and metabolism of the gut microbiome which has far-reaching effects on host health:
– They stimulate proliferation of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli at the expense of detrimental bacteria like Clostridium.
– By preferentially feeding beneficial microbes, prebiotics improve microbial balance in the gut.
– The end products of fermentation like short-chain fatty acids provide sustenance to colonocytes and lower luminal pH, inhibiting growth of pathogenic bacteria.
– Butyrate produced during fermentation is the preferred energy source for colonic cells and helps maintain gut integrity.
– Microbes metabolize prebiotics into beneficial compounds like vitamins that are absorbed systemically.
Thus, prebiotics modulate gut microbiota composition towards a healthier profile and promote balanced immune response in the gut. Overall, they strengthen intestinal barrier function and protect against gut dysbiosis.
Role of Prebiotics in Supplements
Given their multiple gut health benefits, prebiotics have become an important functional ingredient in dietary supplements:
Digestive Health Supplements
Prebiotics support digestive health in different ways. They soften stools, ease constipation issues, and improve regularity. The non-digestible fibres help retain fluid in stools and add bulk for smoother transitions. This reduces straining during bowel movements.
Immune Support Supplements
A balanced microbiota acts as the first line of defence against pathogens. Prebiotics boost beneficial microbial colonies to enhance barrier function and competence of gut-associated lymphoid tissues. They promote synthesis of antimicrobial peptides, secretory IgA and short-chain fatty acids to strengthen innate immunity.
Probiotic Combination Products
Prebiotics work synergistically with probiotics to promote their selective growth and viability transit through the GI tract. Combination supplements with both probiotics and prebiotics ensure optimal delivery and engraftment of good bacteria into the colon. This brings maximum benefit for gut and overall health.
Weight Management Supplements
Prebiotics have shown potential to aid weight loss through varied mechanisms. Short-chain fatty acid production influences appetite hormones. They may also improve insulin sensitivity and energy metabolism. Inulin indigestible fibres impart a feeling of fullness for appetite control.
Other Benefits
Besides digestive and metabolic support, prebiotics also feature in supplements tailor-made for gut health, women’s wellness, bone support and skin & hair care. They help manage issues like IBS, candidiasis, eczema, dermatitis and even protect against certain cancers due to their systemic effects.
Safety Considerations
While prebiotics are generally well tolerated when consumed in recommended amounts through supplements, certain precautions may apply:
– High doses over extended periods could cause abdominal pain, bloating or flatulence in sensitive individuals. People should start with lower amounts and gradually increase based on tolerance.
– Those with diabetes should carefully monitor blood sugar levels as prebiotics may affect absorption and insulin response.
– Pregnant and lactating women must consult their doctor before taking any supplement.
– Individuals undergoing antibiotic treatment or suffering gastrointestinal disorders require medical supervision.
Thus, including prebiotics as part of a balanced diet or through supplements promotes colonic and systemic health, provided amounts are as per guidelines and suit personal needs. Further research continues to unravel their promising benefits.
As the role of gut microbiota in human wellness expands, prebiotics have emerged as essential food ingredients and supplement components. By selectively nourishing beneficial microorganisms, they help establish a healthy intestinal profile for the host. Besides aiding digestion, prebiotics also support immunity, metabolism and hormone balance. Their multi-functional properties make them suitable functional additives across various supplement categories. However, appropriate dosing aligned with individual factors remains important.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
