If You're Taking Probiotics, Don't Forget About This Important Step

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You probably know about probiotics already. They're the "good" bacteria that can improve your gut health. And if you don't know already, the health of your gut can affect pretty much your whole body, from your digestion to your skin, cardiovascular system, and immune system.

You can find probiotics in fermented foods, but you can also get them in supplemental form. Many of these supplements have different bacteria strains, which have various benefits, like some promote women's health, while others promote digestive health. When looking for a supplement, read the labels carefully to choose which ones are the best for your needs. It's also always helpful and recommended to talk to your doctor before taking anything new and they can help give you some suggestions on the brands and formulas to take.

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So anyways, you know about probiotics, but did you know that they're pretty much useless if you're not getting prebiotics? Yes, that's right, you need prebiotics, too. They're non-digestible carbohydrates (or fibers) that serve as "food" for the healthy gut bacteria (probiotics), so they can help them grow and thrive.

You can get prebiotics through your diet, but you can also find them in supplement form, too. In fact, many probiotic formulas also contain prebiotics, so they're like a two-in-one. You can take a look at some prebiotic supplements below.

Foods With Prebiotics

Bananas

Asparagus

Raw Garlic

Onions

Whole Oats

Chicory Root

Shiitake Mushrooms

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.