Women's health is influenced by several factors, including diet. Within this context, probiotics and prebiotics stand out for their significant contribution to the balance of the female body. But do you know exactly what these compounds are and how they work?
Difference between probiotics and prebiotics:
Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast, which, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits, particularly to the intestines.
Prebiotics , on the other hand, are non-digestible food components that serve as “food” for these good bacteria, stimulating their growth and activity in the intestine.
How they impact women's hormonal, digestive and intimate health:
The gut microbiota is directly related to hormone production and metabolism, influencing symptoms of PMS, menopause, and overall hormone balance. Furthermore, both probiotics and prebiotics aid digestion and nutrient absorption, strengthening the immune system and preventing infections.
Foods that are natural sources of probiotics
Probiotics can be found naturally in fermented foods, which help restore the gut with beneficial bacteria:
Foods that are natural sources of probiotics:
Natural yogurt: made from fermented milk, it is rich in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which promote intestinal balance.
Kefir: a fermented drink with a mixture of bacteria and yeast, considered more potent than yogurt because it contains a greater diversity of microorganisms.
Kombucha: tea fermented by a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (known as a “scoby”), which in addition to probiotics, provides antioxidants.
Miso: fermented soybean paste widely used in Japanese cuisine; provides probiotics and digestive enzymes.
Sauerkraut: fermented cabbage, traditional in Germanic countries, which in addition to probiotics is also a source of vitamin C and fiber.
Here you'll find an explosion of micronutrients, antioxidants, proteins , and fiber. These components are essential for the proper functioning of the body and women's health.
Rich in prebiotic fibers;
Made from plants;
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Regenerative;
Low carb;
14g of protein per serving.
Where to find prebiotics in food
Prebiotics are fibers that feed the good bacteria in the gut, promoting their growth and activity. Besides being versatile, they are rich in inulin, a prebiotic fiber that promotes the growth of bifidobacteria.
Onion: has fruity and sulfur compounds that, in addition to nourishing the microbiota, have anti-inflammatory action;
Green banana: contains resistant starch, a type of fiber that serves as food for prebiotics in the intestine;
Asparagus: antioxidant source that protects intestinal health;
Oats: rich in beta-glucans and soluble fibers that act as prebiotics and help control cholesterol;
Artichoke: especially Jerusalem artichoke, is one of the greatest natural sources of inulin, ideal for stimulating healthy microbiota.