Prebiotics feed your gut!
But probiotics arent the only important nutrient for promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
When it comes to eating for better gut health,prebioticsare another key player, as well.
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But what exactly are prebiotic foods, and what benefits do they serve in the body?
We asked an expert for everything it’s crucial that you know.
What Are Prebiotics?
Jonny Valiant
Prebioticsare compounds that feed healthy gut bacteria and help balance the gut microbiome, explains Bianca Tamburello, RDN.
Generally speaking, prebiotics are usually classified as a jot down of soluble fiber.
When these prebiotics reach the gut microbiome, the beneficial bacteria found there feed on and ferment these nutrients.
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How are Prebiotics Beneficial?
Research also shows they may be effective against insulin resistance.
Oats
Oats are one of the best sources of soluble fiber and a potent prebiotic.
Caitlin Bensel
Barley
Barley is a fantastic prebiotic whole grain, thanks to its beta-glucan content.
This also lends them to being effective anti-inflammatory agents throughout the body.
Cocoa
Then theres cocoa, which makes this list due to its abundance of polyphenols.
Greg DuPree
The gut benefit of this popular ingredient makes that evening piece of chocolate that much sweeter.
There, they promote the growth and activity of good bacteria, aiding in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
The non-digestible carbohydrate passes through the stomach and small intestine to essentially feed the beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
Victor Protasio
Asparagus
Asparagus is considered a prebiotic because it contains a significant amount of inulin, as well.
Black-eyed peas are also packed with a variety of essential micronutrients like folate, iron, and thiamine.
They’re also easy to incorporate into your favorite salad, relish, or smoothie recipe.
CAITLIN BENSEL
Once the healthy bacteria is consumed, it can act as ananti-inflammatory food.
Soybean
Thebenefits of soybeansare endless.
In general, they’re a great option for promoting gut health and may reduce inflammation in the body.
Jonny Valiant
Did you know that edamame are unripe soybeans?
Cashews
Cashewsare a fan favorite when it comes to nutritious snacking.
They’re also packed with prebiotic compounds that can help with digestion, gut immunity, and oxidative stress.
Caitlin Bensel
The best part about this gut-healthy snack?
you could carry them pretty much wherever you go.
Burdock Root
If you like artichokes, you’ll loveburdock root.
Greg DuPree
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Samantha Seneviratne
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