Prebiotics
Prebiotics are fibres that feed gut bacteria, such as inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides.
Short answer Prebiotics are fibres that feed gut bacteria, such as inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides. Chicory inulin has an authorised claim: 12g a day contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency.
Food sources
Onions, garlic, leeks, chicory, bananas, oats and beans.
Starting out
Increase slowly: prebiotic fibres commonly cause wind and bloating at first, and may not suit people with irritable bowel syndrome.
Related pages
- Fibre supplementsAdults are advised to eat 30g of fibre a day; most manage about 20g.
- Digestive enzymesFor most people digestive enzyme supplements are unnecessary.
- Probiotics for womenProbiotics marketed for women's intimate health contain lactobacillus strains.
- Probiotics with antibioticsThere is some evidence that taking a probiotic during a course of antibiotics reduces the chance of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.
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Questions people ask
What should I know about prebiotics?
Prebiotics are fibres that feed gut bacteria, such as inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides.
Can I take this with medication?
Ask a pharmacist or GP first; some supplements interact with medicines.
Do supplements replace a balanced diet?
No. They are meant to add to a varied diet, not stand in for one.
Sources
Checked 9 October 2026.