Understanding Gut Health: Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Digestive Support

On this week's Wellness Wednesday, Clark's Nutrition expert Starkie Sowers joined anchor Mary Strong to demystify one of the hottest topics in wellness: gut health and its connection to overall wellbeing.

Sowers explained that maintaining a healthy gut goes beyond just digestion. A balanced gut microbiome can impact immunity, mood, and overall health. The key to supporting this system lies in understanding the relationship between prebiotics and probiotics.

Prebiotics, which are essentially fiber compounds found naturally in foods like oatmeal and whole grain breads, serve as nourishment for beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. These fibrous compounds feed the probiotics, which are the beneficial microorganisms that perform important functions in the gut.

The probiotics themselves work to maintain bacterial balance by producing beneficial compounds including hydrogen peroxide and fatty acids that support colon health. Sowers highlighted newer formulations using spore-based probiotics, which offer enhanced stability in the digestive system and provide longer-lasting benefits compared to traditional bacterial strains.

For those looking to incorporate these supplements into their routine, options include powder drink mixes that can be added to beverages, convenient gummy formats, and specialized formulations for those with gluten sensitivities. Sowers also discussed digestive bitters, which help stimulate the digestive process by signaling the body to prepare for food processing.

When it comes to timing, Sowers recommended taking prebiotics in the morning or evening, while spore-based probiotics are best consumed on an empty stomach, though they can also be taken with food.

Wellness Wednesday is sponsored by Clark's Nutrition Natural Foods Market.