Health Benefits of Prebiotics

The human gut microbiota is involved in a cascade of activities essential for body health. Their imbalance can lead to significant metabolic abnormalities and a plethora of diseases. Prebiotics have emerged as an effective nonpharmacological approach to re-establish gut symbiosis and promote well being.

Prebiotics are basically nondigestible fiber compounds in foods, and are composed of oligosaccharides. They stimulate the growth of normal gastrointestinal flora, which in turn hinders the growth of abnormal flora and pathogens. Common examples of prebiotics include fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), inulin, arabinogalactan, polydextrose, lactulose and lactitol.

Variety of prebiotic foods, raw green banana, asparagus, onions, garlic, leeks, berries and green beans. Image Credit: SewCream / Shutterstock
Prebiotics resist hydrolytic activity in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract and thus reach the colon in an intact form. Here they are subjected to selective fermentation by beneficial microflora, which ultimately changes the composition of the colonic microbiota. Prebiotics generally stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacillus, which confers several beneficial effects on the host like improving digestion and strengthening the immune system.

The health benefits of prebiotics are mainly attributed to the increased production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). SCFA are the chief end-products of prebiotic fermentation, and they play an important role in modulating the intestinal barrier. SCFA are also involved in regulating the immune system and inflammatory response.

Prebiotics are not only modulators of gut microbiota, but their potential is being harnessed in a number of diseases such as colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel diseases. They also aid in the absorption of several minerals, and help in the prevention of obesity and relieving constipation.




Resource: Health Benefits of Prebiotics