There are several words in the medical field that sound alike but have different meanings.
Sometimes, these terms are interrelated but it doesn't mean one can be used in lieu of the other.
Some of these terms are probiotics and prebiotics, which are often used in the concept of digestion.
Probiotics are microbes that bring benefits into the body, particularly to the gastrointestinal system.
They can be bacteria, fungi and other type of microorganisms that keep the large intestine fully functional and in good condition.
These probiotics are actually part of the natural microflora but some people don't have sufficient amount of these good microorganisms to fight other microbes that causes disease known as pathogens.
Hence, several scientists created food supplements that contain probiotics to promote good digestive function and keep the micro-environment within a balance state.
The two groups of microorganisms that are commonly used for probiotic purpose are the bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria.
Their presence in the gastrointestinal system creates an unfavorable environment for harmful microbes like the proteolytic bacteria (produce toxins that harm the gut).
The lactic acid bacteria increase acidity in the gut while the bifidobacteria compete with the proteolytic bacteria in terms of living space and nutrition; thereby, survival and growth of bad bacteria is almost impossible.
Looking for food supplements that have probiotics is easier even with a little knowledge on probiotic-microbes.
Even by merely recognizing the name of these good microorganisms like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Escherichia coli and Bifidobacterium breve would be helpful.
There is no need to perfectly memorize the said names of microbes but at least be familiar with them.
These scientific terms will definitely appear in the tag of probiotic-containing food supplements such as Yakult, ProBactrix and Actimel.
Apart from inhibiting the harmful effects of proteolytic bacteria, probiotics also help the body to avoid infection brought about by other pathogens (i.
e.
yeasts).
These good microorganisms also attach themselves with the carcinogenic by-products of cooked meat.
Thus, they are recognized to have anti-cancer effect that greatly benefits the colon.
Probiotics can also boost up the function of the immune system against any infection and even possess an anti-inflammatory effect.
Likewise, these good microbes simultaneously reduce the circulating cholesterol in the body and the high blood pressure towards the normal level.
Moreover, prebiotics share the same goal with probiotics, which is to keep the colon healthy.
However, prebiotics act indirectly.
They are indigestible substances that come from various foods and serve as sources of nourishment for the probiotics.
In other words, they are food for the good microorganisms.
Taking in foods that contain prebiotics is like feeding a bunch of soldiers that are willing to kill and get killed just to save the colon from disease-causing microorganisms.
Some foods that have prebiotics are chicory root, garlic, onion, asparagus, wheat and many more.
In general, probiotics and prebiotics work hand in hand.
The nourishment that prebiotic foods provide helps the good microorganisms to perform their tasks proficiently.
Probiotics could not hinder pathogenic activities without aid from the prebiotics and the latter is the key for the survival of the other.
Hence, eat foods that are rich in probiotics and prebiotics but make sure to consume them with proper medical guidance, particularly when knowledge regarding these food supplements is insufficient.
Safety consumption is always the priority.