Prebiotic and Probiotic Capsules: Uses, Benefits and Difference

When we talk about nutrition, prebiotics and probiotics capsules form an important part of the discussion. But do we really know what they mean? Both probiotics and prebiotics play totally different roles. While probiotics include bacteria beneficial for your health, prebiotics function as foods necessary for these bacteria. Even though both are different, they are equally important for your well-being. 

Probiotics contain live bacteria and are available in form of supplements or present in specific foods [1]. Substances that you normally cannot digest, such as fiber, come under prebiotics. These are consumed by the good bacteria present in your gut. While you may take prebiotics and probiotic capsules, you should be aware that there are many foods containing prebiotics. 

A few examples of foods with high prebiotic fiber include:

• Berries
• Legumes
• Bananas
• Asparagus
• Garlic
• Oats

To know more about different prebiotics and probiotics foods along with the benefits of such supplements, read on. 

What are Prebiotics?

Your gut houses beneficial bacteria that help break down and digest complex food substances. This mechanism is vital for boosting your immunity. If you want these healthy bacteria to thrive in your gastrointestinal tract, you must supply prebiotics to them. Prebiotics are plant fibers that aid in the growth of beneficial bacteria. These nutrients in the form of prebiotics are vital to stimulate the activity and growth of gut bacteria. So, ensure that you include plenty of prebiotics in your diet! 

What are Probiotics?

Now that you are familiar with prebiotics, it is also essential to know about probiotics. Like prebiotics, probiotics are a must for the health of your digestive system. However, both are different. Probiotics include different types of live yeast and bacteria that help you maintain a healthy gut.

Probiotics are also referred to as helpful bacteria as they help decrease inflammation and promote good digestion. When you face an illness, harmful bacteria disrupt the entire functioning of your system. This is when beneficial bacteria help knock out harmful bacteria, restoring the balance in your system. 

When you consume probiotic supplements, you can add more beneficial bacteria to the body. Include both prebiotic and probiotic supplements in your diet, so your body can benefit from various prebiotic and probiotic capsules uses. Though there are numerous probiotic capsule uses, be aware of certain probiotic capsule side effects before you start taking them. If you notice any unusual symptoms, do consult a doctor immediately. 

Health Benefits of Prebiotics and Probiotics

There are different probiotic capsule types available in the market. Consult a doctor before you choose any specific probiotic capsule types. This will keep you safe from any probiotic capsule side effects, even though most of these are mild. A few important probiotic capsule side effects have been discussed below. Before understanding prebiotic and probiotic capsules uses, learn some of their health benefits.  

• Prebiotics and probiotics can treat conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, allergic infections, and even the common cold.
• These capsules are effective for treating inflammatory arthritis.
• If you want to reduce obesity-related issues, having sufficient amounts of prebiotics and probiotics can be beneficial for your health.
• They also help promote good oral and vaginal health.
• Regular intake of prebiotics and probiotics can help you maintain a healthy gut and improve your immunity too. 

Prebiotic and Probiotic Capsules Uses

Your stomach and vagina or intestines contain umpteen number of good bacteria. When you take antibiotics or due to other reasons, the normal balance of yeast or bacteria may be disturbed. By having probiotics, you can restore their number and improve your digestion. Probiotics are used to treat different problems like:

• Bowel issues
• Vaginal yeast infections
• Urinary tract infections
• Eczema
• Lactose intolerance problems

While probiotics occur naturally in foods such as soy drinks, yoghurt and milk, you may also consume them in the form of capsules, powders and tablets. A few pre and probiotic capsules brands in India include:

• GUTRITE
• BIFILIN 
• DAROLAC
• GEMLAC

Keep these prebiotic and probiotic capsules brand names in mind and they and others are easily available and affordable. The prebiotic and probiotic capsules price varies from one manufacturer to another. 

A probiotic capsule normally prescribed by doctors is the Velgut capsule. While it is used for normalizing microflora of the intestines, it is also effective in preventing diarrhea and minimizes the loss of good bacteria from your body.

Prebiotics cannot be digested by our body due to the lack of enzymes that are required to break them down. Instead, these can be absorbed in your blood. So, when it comes in contact with gut bacteria, these can be easily digested. There are many benefits of consuming prebiotics. They: 

• Improve your immunity
• Enhance calcium absorption
• Minimize allergies
• Increase your metabolism

Fructo oligosaccharides, which contain plant sugars, are used in the form of prebiotics. These act as food for good bacteria in your intestine and help lower your cholesterol levels as well. When a mixture of both probiotics and prebiotics are used together for improving the activity and survival of good bacteria in your gut, it is called synbiotics. These functional foods help prevent diseases and improve your health as well [2].

How can you use Probiotic Supplements with Prebiotics?

It is important to follow instructions mentioned in the package before consuming both of them together. Check if you need to swallow it as is or chew supplements. In some cases, you may be asked to sprinkle it on food or mix with water. When having probiotic with prebiotics in liquid form, take proper care to measure your dose. If you are on antibiotics, it is important to give a gap of at least 2-3 hours. Do not take these supplements if you have high fever without talking to your doctor.

What are the Possible Side Effects of using Probiotics along with Prebiotics?

While you can take most prebiotic and probiotic capsules safely and with minimal side effects, you need to be aware of a few facts. You may face abdominal discomfort, gastric problems and bloating of the stomach. These pills may also trigger headaches or cause allergic reactions. If you notice any unusual symptoms, consult a doctor without any delay. Always keep a close watch on prebiotic and probiotic capsules side effects.

What is the Prebiotic and Probiotic Capsule Dosage you should take?

Doctors advise that the prebiotic and probiotic capsules dosage you take should be as per the prescription. An overdose can affect your health. It is always better to wait until your body gets adjusted to them and then increase your dosage as per a doctor’s recommendation. 

Now that you are aware of the pros and cons of taking prebiotics along with probiotics, you can include them in your diet. To consult a doctor for the right dosage, connect to top nutritionists and general physicians on Bajaj Finserv Health. Go for an in-person or online consultation and take a step forward towards better health!