Although the names are almost the same – just one letter difference- these two types of food are completely different but both are essential for gut health!
Probiotics
Probiotics are talked about more commonly. These are fermented food sources of GOOD BACTERIA that contribute to your gut health and keep a happy microbiome.
Foods like:
- Yogurt
- Kefir
- Kimchi
- Tempeh
- Miso
- Sourdough Bread
- Kombucha
- Fermented Veggies like sauerkraut and pickles*
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are also food – both for you and for the good bacteria inside your gut. Prebiotics are what feed these good bacteria to keep them alive and healthy.
And healthy, happy gut bacteria means a happy, healthy microbiome for better digestion and overall health!
*Not all pickles will have probiotics. Probiotics are living cultures and will need to be stored in the refrigerated section at the store.
Some of these include:
- Asparagus
- Leeks
- Onions
- Garlic
- Unripe Bananas
- Berries
- Oats
- Legumes like beans & peas
- Seeds like flaxseed & chia seed
While eating a variety of these foods throughout the week is important, you don’t necessarily have to eat these at the same time.
However, if you are looking for some kid-friendly ways to offer more of both at the same time, check out these recipes:
Kefir & Berries Smoothie
Garlic Tofu Bites
Sourdough toast with Granola Butter (oats) & Banana Slices
Berries on Yogurt
Kimchi Scrambled Eggs with Garlic
While Prebiotic rich foods are usually more easily accepted by kids, probiotics can take longer to learn – especially for a picky eater. While your picky eater learns to like these foods, you can also consider incorporating a probiotic supplement into your child’s balanced lifestyle.
Before introducing this into your child’s diet, however, speak with their pediatrician to figure out if probiotics are right for them. Once you’ve been given the green light, consider starting one of these probiotics.
This post contains affiliate links. For more information see my full disclosure here.
Culturelle Kids
These flavorless single-serve packets feature Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and support digestion and immune health. This probiotic supplement packet can be mixed into cold food or drink once a day and is free of gluten, dairy, lactose, milk, added colors, preservatives, yeast, and soy.
Renew Life Kids Probiotic
This berry-flavored probiotic supplement is designed to help reduce occasional digestive imbalances and support immune health. Renew Life Kids Probiotic is free of sugar, dairy, and gluten. It also contains no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners.
**The author of this site encourages you to consult a doctor before making any health changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition. No information on this site should be relied upon to determine diet, make a medical diagnosis, or determine treatment for a medical condition. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. For more information please read our full disclaimer here.**
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