Over the last month we have focused on learning about the role probiotics play in gut health. Since the state of our microbiome plays an important role in our overall health, it’s important that we nourish it with the proper foods. For our last segment to finish out our month of gut health, we want to explore the use and benefits of postbiotics.
What are postbiotics?
Throughout this series we have learned about the importance of prebiotics to fuel probiotics. As probiotics feed on the prebiotics, postbiotics are produced. They are essentially the byproducts of the fermentation process of probiotics. While the idea of waste may not have the best reputation, postbiotics are actually incredibly beneficial for our health! They play a huge role as key regulators of gastrointestinal health. They may even aid in maintaining healthy inflammation levels and overall immune health.
There are various types of postbiotics created in the intestines. Some examples are enzymes (help us to better digest our food) and short-chain fatty acids. SCFAs are incredibly important for overall digestive health! They are the main source of energy for the cells lining the colon. Additionally, they play a role in metabolizing carbs and fats.
An easy way to increase SCFAs would be through eating a fiber-rich diet of fruits and vegetables. Or, a probiotic supplement can also aid in healthy SCFA levels.
How to support postbiotic production
Besides eating a variety of vibrant whole foods, supplementation can play a role in increasing postbiotic levels. Eating the rainbow is an effective way to ensure bacteria diversity for the microbiome. One great way to ensure overall gut health would be to consume fiber rich foods as a prebiotic. Then, supplement with a probiotic or make sure to eat fermented foods that naturally contain probiotics. Naturally, postbiotics will be produced as byproducts of the probiotics.
Supplements are another way to ensure proper probiotic amounts. New Chapter Probiotic All Flora is a whole-food live probiotic that contains a digestive aid blend for prebiotic and postbiotic support. Another great probiotic to try would be Dr. Mercola’s Complete Probiotic. It features a robust form of prebiotics to support the growth of beneficial flora and postbiotics. However, as long as you are consuming prebiotics or probiotics in some form, you should naturally be producing postbiotics!
We hope you enjoyed learning all about the role our gut plays in our overall health this month! Do you have a favorite digestive supplement or food? Let us know in the comments below or visit us in-stores with any questions!
