The general idea is that they are good for gastrointestinal health, but it is not always clear what exactly each of them are and what differences they have between them. Not even about when each of them should be consumed or under what circumstances. This is the case of probiotics, prebiotics and omeprazole. Because, although it is true that they provide positive benefits to the body, they are not always necessary, especially in what has to do with the particular case of omeprazole.
In order to benefit and take full advantage of the favorable impact that probiotics, prebiotics and omeprazole can offer, it will be essential to know what they are and what function they have. Or in what cases and for what purpose its consumption is recommended. As well as the differences they have among themselves, despite all of them focusing on the gastrointestinal field.
Probiotics are live microorganisms whose role is to strengthen the intestinal microbiome, popularly known as intestinal flora, and ensure that it is kept regulated. That is, they are beneficial for the “good bacteria” found within the body, as stated by nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky. These can be obtained both through food and by consuming supplements.
So what are prebiotics and how are they different? These are substances present in foods that nourish the bacteria in the intestinal microbiome and promote their growth.
The professionals at Laboratorios Normon explain that the main distinction between probiotics and prebiotics is that the former are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate quantities, provide a benefit to people's gastrointestinal health. On the other hand, prebiotics are “non-digestible substrates”, whose mission is to stimulate the growth of microorganisms already found in the body.
Therefore, probiotics are usually used to treat colitis and diarrhea, lactose intolerance or to stimulate the immune system. While prebiotics serve to stimulate the growth and function of probiotics.
The case of omeprazole is completely different. It is a medication that belongs to the family of proton pump inhibitors. This, despite its striking name, is a protein present in the cells of the stomach and related to the generation of stomach acids. The role of omeprazole is to inhibit it, reduce the amounts of acid and thus treat conditions related to stomach acid, such as gastric ulcers, among others. This should always be taken by medical prescription, and in the recommended quantities.
