Exploring the Interplay of Prebiotic and Probiotics

Shruthi Sridhar

Abstract: The human gut is home to a diverse and complex community of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining health. Over the past few decades, research has increasingly focused on the role of probiotics and prebiotics in modulating this gut microbiome to promote overall well - being. Probiotics have gained considerable attention for their ability to enhance digestive health, strengthen immune response, and even influence mental well - being. Meanwhile, prebiotics have emerged as key modulators of the gut environment. The relationship between probiotics and prebiotics is synergistic. Prebiotics serve as a fuel source for probiotics, fostering the growth and activity of these beneficial microorganisms. Together, they form the concept of synbiotics, which aims to optimize gut health by combining probiotics and prebiotics in a complementary manner. This review will explore the individual roles of probiotics and prebiotics, their mechanisms of action, and how their combined use can provide enhanced benefits for human health.

Keywords: Prebiotics, Probiotics, Synbiotics, Gut health