At the pharmacy I get asked a lot of questions about probiotics – and patients sometimes ask if they can take probiotics with fiber. Fiber is an incredibly important part of a nutritious diet, and it’s one that most Americans probably don’t get enough of. And people with digestive issues are increasingly reaching for probiotics, which is why this question is coming up more and more.
As an experienced pharmacist, I’m here to shed some light on this topic and hopefully guide you on your path to better gut health. Just remember, it’s always essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary regimen, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or take other medications. Problems in your gut can be a sign of a health condition, so seriously – see your doctor.
Let’s dive in, and answer the question “can you take fiber and probiotics together?”
Can you take fiber with probiotics?
The short answer is yes! In fact, combining fiber with probiotics may have some interesting synergistic effects on your gut health. The two work together in some pretty great ways, and may help your gut feel better.
Fiber – What is it and why do we need it?
Fiber, an indigestible part of plant foods, plays a crucial role in digestion. It comes in two main types: soluble, which can dissolve in water to form a gel-like substance and can help to slow digestion; and insoluble, which remains undigested as it passes through your digestive system, adding bulk to your stools and helping food to move more smoothly through your digestive tract.
Both types of fiber are necessary for maintaining good health, with benefits ranging from improved digestion, better heart health, weight management, and better blood sugar control. If you want to learn more about why it’s important to have enough in your diet, read this article by the Mayo Clinic.
Probiotics – The friendly gut bacteria
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your gut health. For some people, the right ones may maintain a balance in your gut microbiota, aiding in digestion and supporting your immune system, among other benefits. I’ve written extensively about them before, and you can check those articles for more in-depth information. For example, learn about the most popular species here, or tips for getting the most out of them here.
Why you can you take fiber with probiotics
Fiber acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment for your gut bacteria. In other words, it’s food for your probiotics. Consuming them together can, therefore, help the probiotics to thrive and multiply in your gut, which could enhance their beneficial effects.
Do fiber and probiotics work together?
Absolutely! Consuming fiber and probiotics together can help to promote a healthy gut microbiota, enhance digestion, and support immune health.
Aiding digestion: Fiber can help to prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass. Probiotics, on the other hand, can help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. Together, they can work to optimize your digestion and promote regular bowel movements.
Supporting immune health: A significant portion of the immune system resides in the gut, and a healthy gut microbiota is crucial for a robust immune response. Both fiber and probiotics may contribute to maintaining a balanced gut microbiota, which may consequently support immune health.
Enhancing gut health: The combination of fiber and probiotics can potentially support a healthier gut environment. Fiber serves as food for the beneficial bacteria, including probiotics, helping them to thrive and maintain a balance in the gut microbiota, and also helps keep your gut in motion and may help the lining of your gut be stronger and in better health.
Despite these potential benefits, always remember that everyone’s digestive system is unique. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Therefore, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a fiber and probiotic regimen.
How do you take fiber and probiotics?
The way you take fiber and probiotics can depend largely on your personal preference and any specific health needs you might have.
When it comes to fiber, it is recommended to gradually increase your intake to allow your digestive system time to adjust. Aim to consume a variety of fiber-rich foods throughout the day, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. For a more concentrated dose, there are also fiber supplements available. If you experience diarrhea or uncomfortable loose stool, reduce the intake a bit to give yourself more time to adjust.
The best way to get probiotics is through healthy foods. They can be obtained from a variety of fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kombucha. One brand of yogurt that has probiotics is Chobani, and I’ve researched the specific strains of bacteria and yeasts in them – read the article to learn more. Probiotic supplements are also a popular choice. The appropriate dosage can vary based on the specific strain and the individual’s health status, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with your healthcare provider. The main thing is that you want to choose a quality provider/manufacturer, and make sure you are getting enough dosage – CFUs – to have the colonize your gut successfully. It is normal to have a bit of gas when you first start taking them; you are changing your gut’s microbiome a bit. And taking them every day, consistently, will yield the best results. It’s going to take at least a few weeks to start to see a benefit with probiotics, so you should stick with it for a couple of months if you are not having any uncomfortable side effects. And if you are curious, another question I have gotten is “do probiotics make you pee more.”
Can you take fiber and probiotics every day?
For most people, it’s safe to consume fiber and probiotics on a daily basis. However, always listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly. Some people might experience side effects like gas or bloating, especially when starting or increasing their fiber intake. If you experience any discomfort, try reducing your intake or spreading it out over the day, and speak to your healthcare provider. I recommend to my patients that taking probiotics at night is a great idea – read my article on the best time of day to take them. I also have suggestions on how to take them with ACV (apple cider vinegar), antacids or, if you are a coffee drinker, how to take them with your morning brew.
In conclusion, taking fiber and probiotics together can potentially enhance your gut health and overall wellbeing. However, individual responses can vary, so it’s essential to pay attention to your body and consult with your healthcare provider.
