Obsessed with Probiotics? You’re Probably Missing the Prebiotic Plot

In the age of wellness trends, probiotics have become the poster child of gut health. From yogurt ads to kombucha influencers, we’ve been sold the idea that popping “live cultures” daily is the golden key to digestion, immunity, and even better skin. But while everyone’s busy chasing the probiotic dream, many are ignoring an equally vital piece of the puzzle: prebiotics.

Dietitian Vidhi Chawla explains that probiotics—live bacteria found in fermented foods—can be beneficial, but only if they survive the stomach’s acidic environment. Spoiler: many don’t. Enter prebiotics—non-digestible fibers found in everyday foods like garlic, oats, bananas, and legumes. “They act as fertiliser for the good bacteria already in your gut,” says Chawla.

So why aren’t we hearing more about prebiotics? Experts suggest it’s a mix of science and sales. “Probiotics are easy to market,” says Dr. Kiran B, gastroenterologist. “But without prebiotics, those bacteria often don’t stick around long enough to help.”

That’s where synbiotics come in—the power duo of probiotics and prebiotics working in harmony. Think yogurt with banana or kimchi with lentils.

Dr. Aasima Boxwalla points out that probiotics help break down prebiotics into compounds that protect the gut and may even fight inflammation and disease.

Bottom line? It’s not about choosing between the two. It’s about balance.

Next time you shop for “gut health,” skip the hype—go for synergy.