What to Know Before Boosting Your Prebiotic Intake
This is a type of fermentable fiber that serves as food for probiotics. Before you boost your prebiotic intake, keep these things in mind.
- Prebiotics help maintain digestive health and regularity by feeding probiotics.
- They are indigestible carbohydrates that are easily metabolized by the microflora in the gut.
- They are found in: chicory root, pea fiber, green bananas, cooked and cooled rice and pasta, onions, garlic and supplements.
- If you boost your intake too quickly, you might experience occasional bloating, indigestion, gas, constipation or even diarrhea. (These occasional complaints are similar to what might happen if you consume too much fiber too soon.)
- Certain prebiotics, like inulin, are more likely to cause this issue.
- Read the label before choosing a prebiotic supplement.
- Start with small amounts and see how you feel!
Choose the right prebiotic or probiotic for you.