Postbiotics

[ pohst-bahy-AH-tiks ]

Postbiotics are compounds that are produced after the digestion of prebiotics and fiber-rich foods by probiotics and our gut microbiota. They are the breakdown products or metabolites that result from the fermentation process in the colon. Some examples of postbiotics include short-chain fatty acids, vitamins, amino acids, antimicrobial peptides, and certain carbohydrate substrates. Postbiotics have shown promising potential in supporting gut health, enhancing the immune system, and even lowering the risk of certain diseases like colon cancer. While research on postbiotics is still ongoing, they are considered to play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.