Probiotics vs Prebiotics - What Every Parent Needs to Know

Walk into any health food store and you will find an entire wall of probiotic supplements promising to boost your child’s gut health. But before you reach for that bottle, there is something important every parent should understand. Probiotics and prebiotics are not the same thing, and when it comes to your child’s gut health, one matters far more than the other.

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that are not native to our microbiome. They are often sold over the counter in supplement form and in certain foods like yogurt and fermented vegetables. While probiotic foods like yogurt and kimchi can be helpful additions to your child’s diet, probiotic supplements are often unnecessary and in some cases can even interfere with the natural balance of the microbiome. High dose probiotic supplements in particular are generally not recommended for healthy children.

The probiotics of the future will look very different from what we see on shelves today. Next generation probiotics will be made of newer bacteria that are actually native to our intestines and may enhance the ability of food to promote health. But even these future probiotics will not replace the critical role that whole foods play in supporting your child’s growing gut.

What are Prebiotics and Why Do They Matter More?

Prebiotics are simply another word for fiber - the key portion of our diet that feeds and supports the beneficial bacteria already living in your child’s gut. Think of prebiotics as the food that your child’s gut bacteria need to survive and thrive. Without adequate prebiotic fiber the good bacteria in the gut cannot do their job effectively.

This is why fiber from whole foods - fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains - is the true foundation of gut health. It is not about adding new bacteria from a supplement bottle. It is about feeding and nurturing the remarkable ecosystem that is already living inside your child.

Probiotic Foods vs Probiotic Supplements

There is an important distinction between probiotic foods and probiotic supplements. Probiotic foods like plain organic yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables like kimchi are wonderful additions to your child’s diet. They deliver beneficial bacteria along with a host of other nutrients in a natural, food based form that the body recognizes and uses well.

Probiotic supplements on the other hand are concentrated doses of bacteria in capsule or powder form. For most healthy children they are simply not necessary and should not replace the focus on whole fiber rich foods.

The Simple Takeaway for Parents

Focus on fiber first. Fill your child’s plate with a variety of whole fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains every day. Add probiotic rich foods like yogurt and kefir as delicious and nutritious complements to a fiber rich diet. And save your money on the supplement aisle - the most powerful gut health tool you have is already in your kitchen.