What are prebiotics?

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What are prebiotics?

We all know about the benefits of probiotics for digestion and gut health, but what about prebiotics? Although they sound similar, they are very different. Both can benefit your health enormously – as well as your complexion. So, what exactly are prebiotics?

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We chatted to Naturopath, Caroline Robertson, to find out why you should add prebiotics into your wellness routine.

What are prebiotics?

Turns out, prebiotics can be very beneficial for our bodies. “Prebiotics promote healthy intestinal soil to fertilise probiotics for flourishing assimilation and elimination,” explains Caroline. They work to improve your energy levels, immune system and digestion.

What’s the best way to get our fix of prebiotics?

“Prebiotics are from inulin, oligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides,” says Caroline. You can get your fix through prebiotic-rich foods like asparagus, apple skin, banana, barley, chicory root and garlic. There are also plenty of prebiotic supplements available at stores such as Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Market, where a qualified Naturopath can advise you on the right solution for you and your body.

How often should we take them?

For optimal health, Caroline suggests taking prebiotics daily, with or without probiotics.

Can you ever have too much?

As with most things, you can overdo it with prebiotics. “Too much of a good thing always creates consequences – excess prebiotics can cause bloat, constipation and candida.”

Why are prebiotics now being used in skincare?

Prebiotics can be beneficial for our skin too, which is why you’ve probably seen a rise in prebiotic skincare. According to Caroline, “prebiotics promote beneficial bacteria such as B. breve which reverses sun damage, Streptococcus thermophilus which promotes smoother skin by increasing the lipid ceramide barrier in the dermis, L. rhamnosus  which reduces eczema and L. plantarum which clears acne causing bacteria along with L. acidophilus.”

Here are a few of our favourite prebiotic products: Pretty Pod Powder, Skin Physics Collagen Beauty Elixir, The Beauty Chef Glow Inner Beauty Powder ($65, thebeautychef.com), Blackmores Probiotics + Daily Health

To find out more about Caroline Robertson, click here. Or to find your nearest Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Marketvisit their website here.

Main header image @sophia_roe

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