Do not confuse probiotics with prebiotics. Probiotics are living micro-organisms (mainly: bacteria and yeasts) which contribute to the good health of our intestinal microbiota – that is to say: the bacterial flora naturally present in the small intestine and the colon. In 2001, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined probiotics as “live microorganisms which, when ingested in sufficient quantity, exert positive effects on health, beyond the traditional nutritional effects“.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, constitute the “food” of these “good” bacteria which proliferate in our intestine. Regular consumption of prebiotics therefore also contributes to the balance of the intestinal microbiota. If it is obviously possible to supplement with prebiotics (through food supplements), the latter are naturally present in foods rich in fiber: fruits, vegetables, cereals…
A course of prebiotics to improve your mental health
SeAccording to a recent study conducted by the University of Surrey (in England), prebiotics would be good for the mental health of young adults, between 18 and 25 years old.
To reach this conclusion, the British researchers (who published their work in the specialized journal Scientific Reports) worked with a group of 64 volunteers, women between the ages of 18 and 25. The participants were divided into two groups: the first group received daily prebiotic supplementation for 28 days, while the second group received only a placebo.
Results ? At the end of the experiment, the scientists noted an improvement in the mental health of the volunteers who received prebiotic supplementation. Very concretely, the young women reported lower levels of anxiety compared to the “placebo” group, but also better sleep and fewer mood disorders. To try !
Source : Inserm
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