How do you know if you need prebiotics?

Many of you are asking, firstly, what's the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

It's important to know the signs you should be taking prebiotics to support your gut health. Once you have identified these signs, you'll know it's time to boost your prebiotic intake!

In this blog we will discuss:

• Prebiotics vs probiotics?

• What is prebiotic fibre?

• How do you know if you need probiotics or prebiotics?

• 6 signs you may need to include prebiotics in your diet

• How do you know if prebiotics are working?

• An easy way to boost your prebiotic intake

What's the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

The decision to take prebiotics and (or) probiotics should be based on your individual needs and health concerns. Here are some general guidelines:

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for the gut microbiome. If you have an imbalance in your gut microbiome after taking antibiotics, you may benefit from probiotics.

Probiotics may also help with digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, and constipation, and immune system function.

Prebiotics, on the other hand, are a type of fibre that feeds the good bacteria in your gut, as mentioned above.

Many scientists and gut health experts agree that prebiotics are the cornerstone to gut health - and overall health.

Good to know:

It is important to note that probiotics need special and essential food to survive, thrive, grow, and create a happier, healthier gut microbiome—which comes from prebiotics.  

If you take probiotics without prebiotics, you won't be achieving the maximum benefits.  Consider the probiotics as a plant, but if you never feed your plant (gut!) with the fertiliser (prebiotics) it needs to help it flourish and grow, then it will never be as happy and healthy as it could be.

Find out more by reading 'Prebiotics vs Probiotics: What's the Difference?' and 'Probiotics and Prebiotics for Gut Health'.

6 signs you may need to include prebiotics in your diet

Prebiotics go far beyond just promoting a healthier digestive system. 

Over 4,000 published research papers show the links to prebiotics (particularly inulin (chicory root fibre)) with a wide range of health benefits.

Here is a list of 6 signs that you may need prebiotics:

1. Irregular bowel movements: If you are experiencing irregular bowel movements or constipation, it may be a sign that you need more prebiotics in your diet. Prebiotics help to promote regularity and improve digestion.

2. Frequent illness: If you find that you are getting sick more often than usual, it may be due to a weakened immune system. Prebiotics help to boost the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Check out our blog 'Prebiotics & Immune System Function' for more info.

3. Digestive issues: If you experience bloating, gas, or other digestive issues, it may be due to an imbalance in your gut bacteria. Prebiotics can help to rebalance your gut bacteria and improve digestion.

4. Skin problems: Your skin health can be affected by the health of your gut. If you are experiencing skin problems such as acne or eczema, it may be a sign that you need more prebiotics in your diet.

5. Low energy: If you find that you are low on energy throughout the day, it may be due to an unhealthy gut. Prebiotics can help to improve your gut health, leading to increased energy levels.

6. Mood:  Did you know that 90% of serotonin, the 'happy hormone' is produced in your gut? Anxiety, depression and gut health are all inter-related and the gut-brain axis is well-established scientifically. Read more about prebiotics and mood here.

In addition to these 6 signs you may need prebiotics in your diet, did you know there is a direct link between prebiotics and weight management?  You can find out more here.

How do you know if prebiotics are working?

If you have recently started taking prebiotics or increased your intake of prebiotic-rich foods, you may wonder if they are working.

Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Improved Digestion: One of the most noticeable signs that prebiotics work is improved digestion. If you are experiencing less bloating, gas, constipation, or other digestive issues, the prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve your gut health.

2. Increased Energy: Prebiotics can help to improve nutrient absorption and promote the production of short-chain fatty acids, which can lead to increased energy levels.

3. Better Mood: Research has shown that gut health is linked to mental health, and prebiotics may positively impact mood. If you are feeling less anxious or depressed or have an overall improved sense of well-being, it may be a sign that prebiotics are working.

4. Stronger Immune System: Prebiotics can help to boost the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. If you are getting sick less often or recovering from illnesses more quickly, it may be a sign that prebiotics are working.

An easy way to boost your prebiotic intake

ió fibrewater is the UK's first prebiotic-infused water that delivers precision nutrition with 100% of your daily prebiotics and 20% of your daily fibre intake, too!

Made with soluble prebiotic chicory root fibre (inulin), ió fibrewater is completely clear, has no added sugar and is just 17 kcals per bottle.

With a splash of refreshing natural fruit flavour (Lemon & Lime or Strawberry), and no 'nasty' ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, ió fibrewater is a great swap-up from other drinks and tastes great, too!

Plus, it's approved by the Vegan Society and is gluten-free.

Check out the numerous reviews regarding how ió fibrewater is positively impacting people's health - and lives.

'One word. AMAZING! I'm not bloated and my stomach cramps are gone!' Alyosha P.

🥳'I have had digestive issues (IBS, hiatus hernia with acid reflux) and food intolerances for many years. My digestion has been much easier since the first day of drinking ió fibrewater.' Isobel G.

🤩' Absolutely love this water. I felt instant benefits after just a few days!  My energy levels improved, and my sleep has been so much better!' Sigi G.

Why not look at the results from our 12-day ió fibrewater challenge?  

Get the gut-loving goodness of ió fibrewater with 20% off your next order!

Go to our shop at ió fibrewater and use the code 'PREBIOTIC20' to get 20% off your order (use the code at checkout).

Summary

If you're struggling with digestive health issues, low mood, such as anxiety or depression, feeling blah and lacking energy, skin issues, and always falling ill - chances are prebiotics could make a positive difference for you.

ió fibrewater provides an easy, refreshingly delicious way to boost your prebiotic and dietary fibre intake.

It's not just prebiotics vs probiotics - ió is a prebiotic that supports the growth of probiotics and creates a healthier microbiome and a happier, healthier you!