Your Cart is Empty
Probiotics and prebiotics are two dietary components that have been shown to promote gut health by modulating the gut microbiome. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can confer a health benefit when consumed in adequate amounts, while prebiotics are non-digestible food fibers that promote the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics have been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, including improving digestive function, enhancing the immune system, and reducing inflammation in the gut . Some studies have also suggested that probiotics may have a role in the treatment of certain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are a type of dietary fiber that is not digested in the small intestine but instead reaches the colon intact, where it is fermented by beneficial bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in the gut . Prebiotics have also been shown to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can help to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Overall, the evidence suggests that both probiotics and prebiotics can play a role in promoting gut health.
Prebiotics and probiotics are two types of dietary supplements that are often used to promote gut health, but they have different functions and mechanisms of action.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are similar to the beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut. They are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, as well as in dietary supplements. When consumed, probiotics can help to restore the natural balance of the gut microbiome, enhance nutrient absorption, and support immune function.
Here are some examples of probiotics:
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible fibers and complex carbohydrates that are found in a variety of plant-based foods. They serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting their growth and activity. Some examples of prebiotic foods include garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas, oats, and legumes.
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are also examples of prebiotics. GOS are found naturally in human milk, legumes, and some grains, while HMO are unique to human breast milk. They are both non-digestible fibers that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Other examples of prebiotics include:
Consuming a variety of prebiotic-rich foods can help to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote overall gut health.
While probiotics are living microorganisms that provide direct health benefits, prebiotics act as a "fertilizer" for the good bacteria in the gut, helping to support their growth and activity. Both probiotics and prebiotics can be beneficial for gut health, and they can be consumed separately or together as synbiotics.
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers and complex carbohydrates that serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut. When consumed, prebiotics pass through the digestive system mostly intact and reach the large intestine, where they are fermented by the gut microbiota. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are important for maintaining a healthy gut. Here are some ways that prebiotics benefit gut health:
Studies have shown that consuming prebiotics can lead to improvements in gut health, including increases in beneficial bacteria, reductions in harmful bacteria, and improvements in gut barrier function and immune function. For example, a systematic review of 26 randomized controlled trials found that prebiotic supplementation was associated with improvements in gut microbiota composition, gut barrier function, and markers of immune function (Holscher, 2017) Overall, consuming prebiotic-rich foods or supplements can help to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote overall gut health.
Some examples of prebiotic-rich foods include:
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host. Probiotics can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, as well as in dietary supplements. Probiotics work by colonizing the gut with beneficial bacteria, which can improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria, and improving gut barrier function.
While prebiotics and probiotics both have benefits for gut health, they differ in their mechanisms of action. Prebiotics work by selectively feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut, while probiotics work by adding beneficial bacteria to the gut. Both prebiotics and probiotics can be beneficial for gut health, and consuming a variety of prebiotic-rich foods and probiotic-containing foods or supplements can help to promote overall gut health.
Common sources of prebiotics in food include:
Prebiotic supplements work by providing the gut microbiota with specific types of fibers that are not digested by the human body, but instead, are fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process leads to the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, which are known to have many health benefits.
Prebiotic supplements typically contain specific types of fibers such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMO), inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and resistant starch.
These fibers are not digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract and pass through to the colon where they are fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process creates a favorable environment for the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which have been associated with numerous health benefits such as improved gut health, enhanced immune function, and reduced inflammation.
In addition to promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotic supplements have also been shown to increase the production of SCFAs, particularly butyrate, which is important for maintaining gut barrier function, reducing inflammation, and protecting against colorectal cancer.
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a type of prebiotic that have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential health benefits. HMOs are structurally complex carbohydrates that are naturally present in human milk and are not found in any other mammalian milk. HMOs have been shown to have a prebiotic effect in the gut, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and supporting gut health. In comparison to other prebiotic sources such as galactooligosaccharides (GOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, and resistant starch, HMOs have unique structural and functional properties that make them stand out as a superior prebiotic source.
HMOs are structurally complex carbohydrates composed of different types of monosaccharides, including glucose, galactose, N-acetylglucosamine, and fucose, with varying linkages between the monosaccharides. These structural differences result in a variety of HMO isomers that differ in their degree of branching and length of the carbohydrate chain. Research has shown that HMOs are resistant to digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract and reach the colon intact, where they are fermented by gut bacteria to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and gases such as hydrogen and methane. These SCFAs have been shown to have beneficial effects on gut health, including reducing inflammation, supporting the gut barrier, and regulating immune function.
GOS, FOS, inulin, and resistant starch are also commonly used prebiotics that have been shown to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. GOS are composed of galactose units linked by a β-1,4 bond, while FOS and inulin are composed of fructose units linked by β-2,1 bonds and β-2,1 and β-2,6 bonds, respectively. Resistant starch is a type of starch that is not broken down by digestive enzymes in the small intestine and reaches the colon intact, where it is fermented by gut bacteria to produce SCFAs.
While GOS, FOS, inulin, and resistant starch have been shown to have prebiotic effects, they differ from HMOs in several ways.
First, the structure of HMOs is more complex than that of other prebiotics, allowing for a greater diversity of bacterial species to be stimulated. HMOs have been shown to promote the growth of bifidobacteria, which are considered beneficial for gut health, as well as other bacterial species that have been associated with reduced risk of allergies and infections.
Second, HMOs are specific to humans and are not found in any other mammalian milk, while GOS, FOS, inulin, and resistant starch are found in various plant and animal sources. This makes HMOs a unique prebiotic source that is specifically tailored to the needs of human infants.
Third, HMOs have been shown to have additional health benefits beyond their prebiotic effects. For example, some HMOs have been shown to have anti-infective properties, inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and viruses, and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. HMOs have also been shown to support immune function, regulate gut inflammation, and improve gut barrier function.
Finally, HMOs have been extensively studied in human clinical trials, demonstrating their safety and efficacy in promoting gut health in both infants and adults. While GOS, FOS, inulin, and resistant starch have also been studied in clinical trials, the evidence for their effectiveness is not as strong as that for HMOs.
The recommended dosage of a prebiotic supplement can vary depending on the specific type of prebiotic and the individual's age, weight, and health status. However, a general guideline is to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effect is achieved without any adverse effects.
For example, a study investigating the effects of inulin supplementation on gut microbiota in healthy adults used a daily dose of 15 grams for 4 weeks without any adverse effects (Delzenne et al., 1999). Another study investigating the effects of GOS on stool frequency and microbiota composition in constipated adults used a daily dose of 10 grams for 3 weeks (Wang et al., 2019).
As for the HMO supplement 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL), the recommended daily dose is typically around 2-5 grams for adults here at Layer Origin. We recommend starting with low doses such as 1 g or lower for the first few days and titrate up to the 2-5 g range.
It is important to note that high doses of prebiotic supplements may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea initially. Therefore, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effect is achieved without any adverse effects.
While prebiotic supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, they can cause side effects in some individuals, especially at higher doses. Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary and can be managed by reducing the dose or discontinuing the supplement.
In rare cases, prebiotic supplements can cause more severe side effects, such as allergic reactions or worsening of pre-existing digestive conditions. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or taking medications should consult with their healthcare provider before taking prebiotic supplements.
For HMO prebiotics, it is not recommended for people with milk allergies since HMO contains trace amount of lactose (cow’s milk). However, people with lactose intolerance can still consume HMO because of the lactose content is very low in our HMO products.
The time it takes to see results from taking prebiotic supplements can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's gut microbiome, diet, lifestyle, and the specific prebiotic supplement being used. Generally, it may take a few weeks to several months to see the full benefits of prebiotic supplementation.
A systematic review of clinical trials examining the effects of prebiotics on gut microbiota found that changes in gut microbial composition could occur within days or weeks of initiating prebiotic supplementation, but these changes were often transient and depended on the dose and duration of supplementation. The authors of the review also noted that the health benefits of prebiotics, such as improved digestion and immune function, may take longer to manifest and could require longer-term supplementation.
Another study conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in healthy adults, and found that after four weeks of supplementation with a combination of fructooligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides, there was a significant increase in bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, which are considered beneficial bacteria, as well as a decrease in potentially harmful bacteria. The participants also reported improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating and constipation, suggesting that the prebiotic supplementation had a positive impact on gut health.
In summary, while changes in gut microbiota can occur within days or weeks of initiating prebiotic supplementation, it may take several weeks or months to see the full benefits of prebiotic supplementation, especially with respect to improving overall gut health. It is essential to speak with a healthcare professional before beginning any prebiotic supplementation to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
Prebiotic supplements have been shown to improve immune function in several ways. Here are eight key ways in which they can do so:
Prebiotic supplements have been found to have numerous health benefits, one of which is their ability to aid in weight management. Here are the reasons why:
About Layer Origin: At Layer Origin, we are dedicated to unlocking the potential of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs). We believe that only God's gift could be so perfectly designed to support our gut health. Our goal is to make this super prebiotic available for both children and adults. Check out PureHMO and SuperHMO Prebiotics
Prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial gut microorganisms. There is growing interest in the potential of prebiotic supplements to reduce inflammation, as inflammation has been linked to a wide range of chronic diseases. Here are five key points about prebiotic supplements and inflammation:
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, and it is the third most common cancer worldwide. While several factors can increase the risk of developing colon cancer, such as age, family history, and lifestyle factors, emerging evidence suggests that prebiotic supplements may have a potential role in preventing this disease.
Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that are not digestible in the small intestine and instead reach the large intestine where they serve as a food source for beneficial gut bacteria. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and reducing the growth of harmful bacteria, prebiotics can improve gut health and modulate the immune system, potentially reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the colon tissue.
Several studies have investigated the potential role of prebiotics in preventing colon cancer. For example, a study published in the journal Nutrients found that a prebiotic mixture of inulin and oligofructose reduced the development of pre-cancerous lesions in the colon of rats. The prebiotic supplementation also led to a significant increase in the abundance of beneficial bacteria in the colon, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which are known to have anti-cancer effects .
Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition investigated the effect of a prebiotic mixture of trans-galactooligosaccharides (TOS) on colon cancer risk factors in overweight adults. The study found that TOS supplementation reduced inflammation and improved gut health markers, including the abundance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. The authors concluded that TOS may be effective in reducing the risk of colon cancer .
In a randomized controlled trial published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers investigated the effect of inulin supplementation on biomarkers of colon cancer risk in healthy adults. The study found that inulin supplementation increased the concentration of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria that has anti-cancer properties. The inulin supplementation also reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are associated with an increased risk of colon cancer .
While these studies suggest a potential role for prebiotic supplements in preventing colon cancer, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and effectiveness of these supplements in reducing the risk of this disease. For example, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials published in the journal Clinical Nutrition found that while prebiotic supplementation improved gut health markers and reduced inflammation, there was insufficient evidence to support a significant reduction in the risk of colon cancer .
In conclusion, prebiotic supplements may have a potential role in preventing colon cancer by improving gut health, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Disclaimer: Please note that the studies mentioned above are publicly available publications and are provided for informational purposes only. Layer Origin does not endorse the use of prebiotic supplements as a preventative measure against cancer. The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease
Prebiotic supplements can be effective in alleviating constipation symptoms by promoting a healthier gut environment and stimulating regular bowel movements. Here are how prebiotic supplements can help with constipation:
Prebiotic supplements have been found to help with different types of diarrheas, including acute diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and diarrhea in infants and young children. The mechanism by which prebiotics improve gut health and function to manage diarrhea varies:
Prebiotic supplements can help to manage diarrhea by promoting the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria, which can help to restore the natural balance of gut microbiota, improve gut function, and reduce inflammation:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects up to 10-15% of the world's population. Symptoms of IBS can include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation. The cause of IBS is still not fully understood, but research has suggested that imbalances in the gut microbiota may play a role. Prebiotic supplements, including HMO prebiotics, have been studied for their potential to help manage IBS symptoms. Here are 8 ways in which prebiotics may help with IBS:
While the research on prebiotics and IBS is still relatively limited, studies have shown promising results. For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that supplementation with a prebiotic mixture improved abdominal pain and bloating in people with IBS compared to placebo. Another study found that supplementation with a specific HMO prebiotic reduced IBS symptoms and improved quality of life in people with IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant IBS).
It's worth noting that not all prebiotics are created equal, and some may be more effective than others for managing IBS symptoms. For example, HMO prebiotics have been shown to be particularly effective due to their unique structure and function.
In conclusion, prebiotic supplements, including HMO prebiotics, may help to manage IBS symptoms by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, reducing inflammation, improving gut motility, and alleviating symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas, and bloating.
IBD is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract that includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. IBD patients often have an altered gut microbiota composition, with a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an increase in harmful bacteria. Prebiotics can potentially help to restore the balance of gut microbiota, improve gut barrier function, and reduce inflammation in IBD patients.
Several studies have investigated the effects of prebiotic supplements in IBD patients, with promising results. For example:
Overall, prebiotic supplements show promise in managing IBD by improving gut microbiota composition and reducing inflammation.
There is a growing body of research suggesting that prebiotic supplements may have a positive impact on mental health, particularly in the area of mood regulation and stress management.
Here are some potential ways in which prebiotic supplements may improve mental health:
Prebiotic supplements have been shown to have potential in improving skin health by modulating the gut-skin axis and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn may reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier function. Here are 8 bullet points discussing the evidence:
Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of prebiotics on skin health, the available evidence suggests that they may have promise in improving skin barrier function, reducing inflammation, and reducing symptoms of certain skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis and acne.
Prebiotic supplements have shown promise in helping to prevent allergies by modulating the gut microbiome and reducing inflammation. Here are some potential mechanisms and supporting studies:
While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of prebiotic supplementation on allergy prevention, these studies suggest that prebiotics may have a beneficial impact on the gut microbiome and immune system, which could potentially reduce the risk of allergies.
Prebiotics have been shown to have potential benefits for improving insulin sensitivity and glucose control in both healthy individuals and those with various metabolic disorders. Here are a few mechanisms why prebiotic can help:
While prebiotic supplements are generally safe, there are some potential risks associated with their use. Here are a few risks:
It's important to note that these risks are generally rare and mild, and most people can safely incorporate prebiotic supplements into their diets.
While prebiotic supplements are generally considered safe for most people, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Some studies have shown that prebiotic supplements can have a positive impact on maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. For example, a randomized controlled trial found that supplementation with a specific prebiotic during pregnancy improved maternal gut microbiota composition and decreased the risk of gestational diabetes . Another study found that consuming a prebiotic mixture during pregnancy increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria in breast milk, which may benefit the infant's gut microbiota .
At Layer Origin, we currently do not recommend pregnant and breastfeeding women to take HMO prebiotics. If you are pregnant and breastfeeding and want to try HMO prebiotics, it is recommended to only proceed under the approval and supervision of your primary caregiver or physician.
There is limited research on the potential interactions between prebiotic supplements and medications. However, some studies suggest that prebiotics may affect the absorption, metabolism, or efficacy of certain medications.
Here are some examples of potential interactions between prebiotics and medications:
Prebiotic supplements and probiotics are two types of supplements commonly used to promote gut health. While prebiotics are non-digestible dietary fibers that stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut, probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. While both supplements can be beneficial on their own, there is growing interest in the potential synergistic effects of combining them. Here are 6 reasons why prebiotic supplements can be taken with probiotics:
Overall, prebiotic supplements can be safely taken with probiotics and may provide several potential health benefits. However, it is important to note that the effects of combining these supplements may vary depending on the specific strains and types of prebiotics and probiotics used. For example, HMO prebiotics are more selectively for Bifidobacterium, Akkermansia, Faecalibacterium, etc.
Choosing the right prebiotic supplement can be a daunting task, but there are several factors to consider to help make an informed decision. Here are some tips:
In summary, when choosing a prebiotic supplement, consider the type of prebiotic, the reputation of the brand, dosage and form, allergens and additives, and consult with a healthcare professional. Additionally, for individuals interested in HMOs, check out our complete line of HMO prebiotics.
Overall, prebiotic supplements, including HMO prebiotics, can be taken long-term if deemed safe and well-tolerated by the individual.
Prebiotic and probiotic supplements should be stored in slightly different ways to ensure their efficacy and prolong their shelf life. Here are some general guidelines on how to store prebiotic supplements compared to probiotics:
Prebiotic supplements:
Probiotic supplements:
There are several lifestyle changes that can support gut health in addition to taking prebiotic supplements. Here are a few examples:
Incorporating these lifestyle changes in addition to taking prebiotic supplements can help support a healthy gut microbiome and promote overall health and well-being.
There is no definitive list of the top 20 beneficial bacterial species for the gut, as the composition of the gut microbiome can vary widely between individuals. However, there are several bacterial species that are commonly found in a healthy gut microbiome and have been associated with various health benefits. Here are 20 examples:
It is important to note that the beneficial bacteria in the gut can vary widely between individuals, and not all strains of the above-listed species may be beneficial for everyone. Some bacteria in the list might be regarded as pathogens or bad bugs in some research. However, research in this field is ongoing, and our understanding of the specific roles of each bacterial strain in gut health is still evolving.
Taking prebiotics is more important than taking probiotics because prebiotics provide the nourishment that the good bacteria in our gut need to thrive and multiply, while probiotics are just the actual live bacteria. Here are some key points on prebiotics and fiber:
What are prebiotics?
What is fiber?
Why is fiber important for health?
Why is taking prebiotics more important than taking probiotics?
Probiotics and prebiotics can be easily incorporated into the diet through various food sources. Here are some examples of food sources for both:
Probiotic Food Sources:
Prebiotic Food Sources:
Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into the diet can be as simple as adding a serving of yogurt or sauerkraut to a meal or snacking on a banana or some raw garlic. It is recommended to aim for a variety of probiotic and prebiotic food sources to ensure a diverse and healthy gut microbiome.
Edited and Reviewed by: Layer Origin Content Team
