Prebiotics help support the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can have a positive impact on immune system function.
Most people don't know that approximately 70-80% of immune cells live in the gut (1). The immune system is closely linked to the gut microbiome, which is made up of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
In this blog we will explore:
- What are prebiotics?
- Research exploring the link between prebiotics and immune system function
- Prebiotics as a superfood
- An easy way to get prebiotic chicory root fibre
What are prebiotics?
Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that cannot be digested by the human body but can be fermented by beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Prebiotics are found naturally in many foods, such as garlic, onions, bananas, asparagus, and whole grains, and are also available in supplement form.
However, the best source of prebiotics are found in chicory root (otherwise, known as inulin).
Find out more about prebiotics in our blog 'What is prebiotic fibre?'
Research supporting prebiotics and immune system function
Research suggests that prebiotics can enhance immune system function by:
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Supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria: Prebiotics provide food for beneficial bacteria in the gut, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. These bacteria can help modulate the immune system by promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.(2)
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Enhancing gut barrier function: Prebiotics can help strengthen the gut barrier by promoting the production of mucus and supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria that can prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing the gut.(3)
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Reducing inflammation: Prebiotics may help reduce systemic inflammation by promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are produced by gut bacteria during fermentation of prebiotic fibers.(4)
Prebiotics are a true superfood!
Prebiotics take dietary fibre to the next level in the health benefits it they can confer.
There are over 4,000 published research papers showing their positive effect on health and well-being, including cardiovascular health, type 2 diabetes, obesity and weight management, sleep and mood. And of course, for digestive health!
According to the National Diet and Nutrition Survey, a whopping 91% of adults in the UK aren't getting enough fibre in the UK. And 96% of kids aren't getting enough fibre.
No wonder 1 in 3 children are struggling with constipation, as are 1 in 7 adults. (5)
An easy way to get prebiotic chicory root fibre
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, 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.
Get 20% off your next order order of ió fibrewater by using code 'iolover20'.
Summary
Overall, incorporating prebiotics into the diet may help support immune system function by promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of prebiotics on the immune system.
Multi-award-winning ió fibrewater delivers 100% of your daily prebiotic intake, and is a great way to boost your fibre intake and support your gut health and overall health and well-being.
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1 -The Interplay between the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System in the Context of Infectious Diseases throughout Life and the Role of Nutrition in Optimizing Treatment Strategies PubMed, March 2021
2 - Effects of Prebiotics on Immune System and Cytokine Expression, PubMed, Feb 2017
3 - Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Immune System by Probiotics, Prebiotics and Post-biotics, Frontiers, January 2022
4 - Short-chain fatty acids, prebiotics, synbiotics, and systemic inflammation: a systematic review and meta-analysis, PubMed, Sept 2017
5 - Constipation, NHS Inform
