What is the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

11.08.2016

Probiotics are living microorganisms which, if they are prescribed in sufficient quantity, render positive effect on human health.

Probiotics supplements may increase in comparatively short time the quantity of beneficial bacteria in the intestine, which is important, for example, after course of antibiotics. But the effect doesn’t last long.

Experiments show that integration of bacteria leads to a change of the microflora composition for a short period of time, then the primary composition restores soon. It’s necessary to mention that some compositions of probiotics may have a negative impact on human health. That’s why it is very important to consult doctor before taking them.

 

As living organisms, probiotics:

Prebiotics are food components, non-digestible fibers or oligosaccharides, that are fermented by beneficial microflora in the human colon, stimulating its growth and activity.

Prebiotics can render more influence on microflora than probiotics because:

Источник (Reference)
R. Walker, M. Buckley.Probiotic microbes: the scientific basis.A report from the American Academy of Microbiology, 2006.