Prebiotics - Probiotics vs Prebiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria that help to increase “good” bacteria in your body. Prebiotics are plant fibers that serve as food for probiotics, allowing them to multiply and do their jobs effectively.

These plant fibers (which can be consumed orally or applied to the skin) are the catalyst for good bacteria growth, leading to a healthy and well-balanced microbiome on both the skin and in the gut.

Probiotics certainly have their place, but the superiority of prebiotics for skin and gut health lie in the fact that everyone’s microbiome is different.

The species of bacteria that your skin needs to thrive can be very different from the species everyone else’s body needs. Probiotics are known to take a one-size-fits-all approach. Although prebiotics don’t dictate the exact species of bacteria that grow in your gut and on your skin—they simply create the most ideal conditions for these bacteria to grow and flourish.

What are the side effects of prebiotics?

Prebiotics have no known side effects because they’re made up of ingredients naturally found on the earth and sea.

Probiotics, although uncommon, are reported to cause some side effects, depending on our overall health, skin and gut microbiomes. The good news is the symptoms are usually mild and subside with continued use:

Stomach Discomfort

The introduction of new probiotic bacteria into your body may cause a variation in gas production due to an increase in bacterial fermentation, which may result in bloating, gas, constipation, or general stomach discomfort. It’s rare for one to experience this due to probiotics, but if it does, start with a low dose and gradually increase to the recommended dose. This discomfort could also be due to other factors, such as medications and food. If the discomfort persists, consult your doctor to figure out what's causing it.

Infection Risk

Probiotics, as previously stated, are safe for the vast majority of people. However, in a few cases, the yeast can enter the bloodstream and cause infections. For example, it’s estimated that only about one in one million people who take probiotics containing Lactobacilli bacteria will develop an infection. The numbers are extremely low, and if infection does occur, it’s often treatable with antibiotics and antifungals. It’s critical to check the ingredients of any prebiotic product before use—specifically that they’re organic, safe, and that you’re not allergic to them.