In light of wellness trends, people are beginning to opt for healthier choices. With an array of nutritional supplements to choose from, synbiotics are one to stand out. Health professionals would say that a healthy gut makes for a healthy body. But you may ask, what does it take to have the best synbiotic formulation? As complex as it sounds, a quality synbiotic must have a combination of probiotics and prebiotics that are selectively chosen and are beneficial to the human body.

This article will take a closer look at these main points:

• What's in a synbiotics
• How probiotics and prebiotics work together. 
• The health benefits of synbiotics and their beneficial effects on gastrointestinal and overall health
• The safe and effective synbiotic formulation criteria,
• and where to synbiotics in the market.

Did you know that not all bacteria are harmful to the body?

In fact, the human gastrointestinal tract is home to various microorganisms that contribute to the body's healthy functioning.

Historically, the consumption of cultured milk has been practiced since ancient times because of the known benefits of lactic acid fermentation.

The same is true in modern times. Synbiotics help maintain a healthy gut microflora and are an essential addition to one's diet.

According to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP), synbiotics are closely related to the word "synergy," which describes how prebiotics and probiotics work together to favor growth and activity of beneficial bacteria.

Let's talk about probiotics and probiotics first.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live strains of microorganisms that are beneficial for the body in proper amounts.  Many studies prove the beneficial effects of probiotic products on gastrointestinal health and the treatment of diseases.

Here are some known advantages of probiotic consumption:

1. It stimulates the growth of good bacteria in the gut
2. It acts against harmful bacteria
3. It strengthens the immune system
4. It aids in the production of B-vitamins in the body
5. It enhances vitamin and mineral absorption
6. It helps treat lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome
7. It prevents colorectal cancer, peptic ulcers, Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), and bacterial vaginitis

In addition, there was also a study that looked into the cholesterol-lowering effect of probiotics. This only proves how probiotics can also help prevent the development of diseases related to lipid profile. Probiotic bacteria compete with pathogenic or harmful bacteria for nutrients.

Furthermore, its ability to grow and multiply blocks the production and adherence of toxic bacteria to the intestinal wall.

Some commonly used strains in probiotic products are from the Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, and Streptococcus geni.

Prebiotics

Going hand in hand with probiotics are the prebiotics. These are non-digestible components of food that are vital to the growth and action of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Prebiotics are fermented by gut bacteria upon entering the colon, stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria. In addition, prebiotics ensures the survival of probiotic bacteria in the intestinal environment (oxygen, temperature, and pH levels).

Sources of prebiotics can be obtained from dietary plant sources (fruits, vegetables, and cereals) but can also be produced artificially and added to food products to boost their nutritional value.

Prebiotics commonly used are lactulose, galactooligosaccharides (GOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), maltooligosaccharides, cyclodextrins, and lactosaccharose.  

Synbiotics offer a wide range of health benefits for all ages. These are the health benefits you will get from taking synbiotics:

Regained balance of gut microflora

Taking synbiotics can help increase beneficial bacteria counts such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which proved helpful among antibiotic takers, those with infections, and the elderly.

Protection from harmful bacteria

With the increase of probiotic bacteria in the gut, there is competition with pathogens for nutrients. Harmful bacteria are blocked from clinging to the intestinal wall with their growth. These harmful bacteria are the cause of gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea and abdominal pains as well as severe infections.

Enhanced immune system

A study showed promising results after introducing synbiotics to the diet with a reduction in C-reactive protein levels.  

Protection from carcinogens

The anti-carcinogenic properties of synbiotics have been explored and saw a reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer.

Prevention of eczema

A number of studies have proven that synbiotics reduce the occurrence of eczema among young children (aged 2 years and less).

Improved quality of life

The study on the effect of synbiotics on the elderly is also notable. It was concluded that the intake of these supplements is not only affordable but effective in improving their health and protecting them from infections.

Other health benefits

Clinical trials on the positive effect of synbiotics on human health have been well documented over the years. They are linked to reduced blood fat and sugar levels, prevention of osteoporosis, and treatment of symptoms from hepatic complications.

In summary, prebiotics and probiotics work together to produce a synergistic effect. The potential for positive health effects is increased as the growth and activity of probiotic microorganisms are supported by prebiotics. Likewise, harmful bacteria are kept at bay.

Factors such as diet, antibiotics, aging, and infections can disrupt gut health. Synbiotics can help regain the balance of gut microflora, eliminate harmful bacteria, strengthen the immune system, treat gastrointestinal problems, and protect the elderly from infections.

It should be noted that different prebiotics is fermented by specific types of probiotic bacteria. You may think of a lock and key that are unique to each other.

Specific properties should be considered to achieve the synergistic effect of synbiotics and deliver the desired health benefits.

The following criteria are used in selecting probiotic strains:

1. Safety – The probiotic strain should be extracted from healthy individuals. It should be proven safe for use and has no history of harmful side effects.
2. Functionality – Probiotics should be able to survive and maintain activity in the gut. It should be able to deliver its function in working against harmful bacteria.
3. Technological usability – In terms of being mass-produced, probiotic bacteria should be able to retain their quality during processing and remain stable during the storage period.

Similarly, prebiotics is also selected with these properties in mind:

• It can remain active even in low doses.
• It can resist digestion in the colon.
• It can be fermented by gut bacteria.
• It can remain stable during processing and storage.

The following are examples of probiotic-prebiotic combinations found in commercial products which you may want to check out:

• Lactobacillus genus bacteria + inulin
• Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, and Bifidobacterium genus bacteria + FOS
• Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus genus bacteria + FOS
• Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genus bacteria + oligofructose
• Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genus bacteria + inulin 

You can make healthy choices in order to live a life free from the burden of diseases. Nutritional supplements exist as a great addition to a healthy lifestyle. One of the many ways that you can take better care of your health is through the consumption of synbiotics.

Synbiotics are commercially available in supplement form or in food products such as:

• Yogurt and yogurt drinks
• Milk and milk drinks
• Gummy candies
• Dried fruits
• Powdered form, i.e., green powders
• Capsules

These are easily accessed in supermarkets, drug stores, and even online. Note that more consumers are gaining awareness of the benefits of nutritional supplements, and synbiotics are steadily rising among the health-conscious. Different products are available across the age groups with specific health benefits.

Probiotics and prebiotics work together to help maintain a balance of gut microorganisms which help fight harmful bacteria. Prebiotics help probiotics bacteria grow in number and preserve their beneficial activity in the body. This shows the synergistic effect of synbiotics.

The combination of live bacteria and the appropriate prebiotic is sure to yield positive health outcomes for individuals. An effective synbiotic formula includes selecting the correct type of prebiotic and probiotic strains. It is emphasized that an excellent synbiotic formula is dependent on the strain and dose of probiotics and prebiotics used.

Synbiotics may be made up of microorganisms, but their effect on the human body is macro. Not only is it widely available, but it is also affordable and safe for consumption. Taking care of your body is always a good choice. And what better way than to consume synbiotics which are indeed key to a healthy gut and a healthy life.

Nuzest's Good Green Vitality contains 8 billion CFU probiotic cultures of L. acidophilus and B. bifidum. It also contains prebiotics, enzymes, and herbs for healthier and happier digestion.

Nuzest's Good Green Vitality is made with over 75 ingredients from vegetables, fruits, herbs, vitamins, minerals, and probiotics! It is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, lectin-free, and non-GMO!

Our refreshed, rejuvenated, and expertly formulated supplement promotes energy, vitality and balance, immune support, easy digestion, healthy aging, and memory and stress control.

Everyone from 4 years and up can take this supplement as nutrition support.

Disclaimer: 

The information provided on Nuzest is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided on this site is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please speak to your qualified healthcare professional in the event that something you have read here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.