Prebiotics are ingredients in the food that induce the growth or activity of pre-existing beneficial bacteria, especially in the intestine (colon). The host microorganisms selectively use pre-biotics to produce a health benefit. Dietary pre-biotics are non-digestible fiber compounds that pass undigested through the upper part of the intestine and stimulate the activity of bacteria in the colon which manages digestive diseases and other health issues amicably. 

Digestive diseases are becoming increasingly common all over the world due to faulty lifestyles and indifferent food habits. Fortunately, fiber helps prevent and correct many of them. As a single ingredient, fiber is an incredible fighter against chronic diseases

FUNCTIONS OF PREBIOTICS (NON-DIGESTIBLE FIBERS)

1. Improve digestion; treat constipation
2. Rectify uncomfortable symptoms of colon bleeding, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea
3. Increase calcium and mineral absorption
4. Help to prevent gall bladder stones by reducing the level of cholesterol in the blood
5. Help reduce heartburn, hyperacidity (acid-reflux disease)
6. Help in smooth bowel movement by creating soft bulky stool that passes easily
7. Help to lower the risk of heart diseases by controlling over-weight, high blood pressure, and high levels of glucose and cholesterol
8. Help to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by improving digestion and acting as a bulking agent which removes carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) more quickly from the colon
9. Potential effect on inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis) and defecation frequency
10. Significantly enhance immunity
11. Decrease the intestinal infection episodes and thus reduce the use of antibiotics

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EXOGENOUS PREBIOTICS (outside source):

Raw dry garlic, raw dry onion, raw wheat bran, whole wheat flour cooked, raw banana, raw oats, unrefined barley, whole grain, chickpeas, almonds, flax seeds

ENDOGENOUS PREBIOTICS (inside source for infants):

Breast milk contains oligosaccharides that increase the useful bacterial population in breastfed infants and strengthen the infant’s immune system.

There is no broad consensus on an ideal daily serving of exogenous pre-biotics. The recommended daily consumption range for general digestive support is from 4-8 grams. For those with active digestive disorders is from 9-15 grams or more. On average, the daily intake of prebiotics is 6 grams serving.