The Complete Prebiotics Guide
Discover the specialized plant compounds that selectively nourish your beneficial gut bacteria. Learn which prebiotics support specific health goals and how to incorporate them into your diet.
What Are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are specialized plant fibers and compounds that your body can't digest, but your beneficial gut bacteria can. When these bacteria ferment prebiotics, they produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, propionate, and acetate—compounds that support gut health, reduce inflammation, and even influence brain function.
Unlike probiotics (which are live bacteria), prebiotics are the food that helps your existing beneficial bacteria thrive and multiply. Different prebiotics feed different bacterial species, making variety important for a diverse microbiome.
Key Prebiotic Benefits
- Increase beneficial bacteria populations
- Boost production of beneficial SCFAs
- Support immune function and reduce inflammation
- Enhance mineral absorption (calcium, magnesium)
- Support gut-brain axis communication
Browse by Type
All Prebiotics (12)
Acacia Fiber (Gum Arabic)
FiberA well-tolerated, slowly fermenting prebiotic fiber from the acacia tree that supports diverse gut bacteria without causing digestive discomfort.
Arabinoxylan
FiberA hemicellulose fiber from whole grains that promotes diverse gut bacteria growth and supports metabolic health through sustained fermentation.
Beta-Glucan
PolysaccharidesA versatile prebiotic fiber found in oats and mushrooms that supports immune function and heart health while nourishing beneficial gut bacteria.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
OligosaccharidesShort-chain prebiotics that selectively feed beneficial Bifidobacterium species and support digestive health.
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)
OligosaccharidesPrebiotic oligosaccharides structurally similar to human milk sugars that strongly promote Bifidobacterium growth, especially beneficial for infants and adults alike.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs)
OligosaccharidesComplex sugars naturally found in breast milk that shape the infant gut microbiome and are now available as supplements for gut and immune health.
Inulin
OligosaccharidesA versatile prebiotic fiber from chicory root that promotes beneficial gut bacteria growth and supports digestive health.
Lactulose
OtherA synthetic disaccharide with dual roles as a pharmaceutical laxative and prebiotic, promoting Bifidobacterium growth and beneficial fermentation.
Pectin
FiberA gel-forming soluble fiber from fruits that supports diverse gut bacteria, promotes SCFA production, and aids digestive health.
Psyllium Husk
FiberA highly viscous gel-forming fiber from Plantago ovata seeds with proven benefits for bowel regularity, cholesterol, and blood glucose management.
Resistant Starch
Resistant StarchA unique type of starch that resists digestion, reaching the colon to feed beneficial bacteria and produce health-promoting short-chain fatty acids.
Xylooligosaccharides (XOS)
OligosaccharidesEmerging prebiotics derived from plant xylan that selectively promote Bifidobacterium growth at low doses with excellent tolerability.
Discover Your Prebiotic Needs
Get personalized prebiotic recommendations based on your unique microbiome composition. Advanced testing reveals which beneficial bacteria you have and which prebiotics can help them thrive.
Common Questions About Prebiotics
What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics are specialized plant fibers that feed and support the growth of these beneficial bacteria. Think of prebiotics as "food" for your good gut bacteria.
How much prebiotic fiber should I consume daily?
Most experts recommend 3-8 grams of prebiotic fiber daily. However, it's best to start slowly (around 2-3 grams) and gradually increase to avoid digestive discomfort like bloating or gas.
Can I get enough prebiotics from food alone?
Yes! Many common foods contain prebiotics, including garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, oats, and apples. A varied diet rich in plant foods typically provides adequate prebiotic intake.
Are there any side effects from prebiotics?
Some people may experience temporary bloating, gas, or digestive discomfort when first increasing prebiotic intake. Starting with small amounts and gradually increasing helps minimize these effects.
