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From yogurt to kombucha, many Americans regularly consume products contain probiotics—good bacteria that help keep bad bacteria at bay in the digestive tract. But to get the most out of these microorganisms, people should also consume a type of plant fiber known as “prebiotics.” As the Ellenburg Center for Natural Medicine explains, prebiotics help improve the effects of probiotics by ensuring these live bacteria thrive. To shed more light on this form of natural medicine, this Anchorage, AK, clinic answers a few common questions about these fibers.  

How Do Prebiotics Work?

While prebiotics are consumed through many types of food, they are not actually digested by the human body. Instead, these plant fibers pass through to the colon, where the gut microbiome—or community of microorganisms in your digestive system—ferments them into a food source for probiotics. Good bacteria then use these fibers for fuel to help them grow and outnumber bad microorganisms.

What Conditions Can Prebiotics Help With?

natural medicineEssentially, any condition that can benefit from probiotics—such as irritable bowel syndrome—can also benefit from the added power of prebiotics. In particular, these are shown to help individuals minimize diarrhea symptoms that occur after antibiotics negatively impact the gut microbiome. This natural medicine can also help individuals feel more full and, in turn, play a vital role in healthy weight management.

In addition to improving digestion, these fibers are also believed to help improve cholesterol, reduce heart disease risks, minimize stress, boost immunity, and refine hormone production.

What Are the Best Sources of Prebiotics?

Prebiotics refer to a collection of fiber types, such as inulin, psyllium, oligofructose, acai gum, and lactulose. Many of these components are found naturally in a variety of plants, including whole grains, onions, leeks, garlic, bananas, and asparagus. In addition, prebiotics can be consumed as concentrated supplements that are taken in pill form or dissolved in beverages.

Although the benefits of prebiotics are wide ranging and they are easily accessible, those who want to maximize the performance of their natural medicine should always consult a specialist. Dr. Michael J. Ellenburg of the Ellenburg Center for Natural Medicine can introduce you to the several aspects of naturopathic treatments and customize a plan that targets your specific health needs. In addition, this alternative medicine doctor of Anchorage also offers several other therapies to promote healing, such as acupuncture and laser treatment. Go online to learn more about this provider’s comprehensive services, or call (907) 563-2366 to set up a consultation.

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