The two words differ by one letter, and they are often printed on the same bottle. They are not the same thing — but they do belong together.
Probiotics: the bacteria
Probiotics are live microorganisms. The ones in supplements belong to well-studied groups such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Bacillus. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi also contain live cultures.
Prebiotics: their food
Prebiotics are fibers that humans cannot digest but gut bacteria can. Inulin is one of the best known; it occurs naturally in chicory root, onions, garlic and bananas. When a product combines probiotics and prebiotics it is sometimes called a synbiotic.
How to read the label
- CFU stands for colony-forming units, the number of live microorganisms. Check whether the number is per serving or per container. Probiotics & Prebiotics, for example, provides 7.2 billion CFU per serving and 216 billion per bottle.
- Strains are listed by name. A blend of several strains offers variety.
- Suggested use tells you whether to take it with food or on an empty stomach.
Where fiber fits in
Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber that absorbs water and adds bulk. It is not a probiotic, but it is part of the same conversation because a fiber-rich diet supports a healthy gut environment. Fiber + Probiotics combines psyllium husk with flaxseed and a probiotic blend in one powder.
Getting started
- Introduce one product at a time so you can tell how your body responds.
- Increase fiber gradually and drink plenty of water.
- Give a new routine two or three weeks before judging it.
- If you have a weakened immune system or a serious illness, ask your doctor before taking probiotics.
Browse the full digestive health collection to compare formulas.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.