Your gut health is impacted by trillions of microorganisms that work to keep your digestive system functioning. Probiotics and prebiotics are crucial to keep things running smoothly—but what about postbiotics?
Postbiotics are the beneficial byproducts created when your gut bacteria break down prebiotics and probiotics. Think of them as the final result of all that gut activity, which includes substances like short-chain fatty acids, enzymes, and vitamins (like B and K). Unlike probiotics, postbiotics don’t involve live bacteria, so there’s no risk of them “dying off.” They’re essentially the reward your body gets for maintaining a healthy gut ecosystem.
Meet the experts: Monica Reinagel, L.D.N., C.N.S., owner of Nutrition Over Easy in Baltimore; Elena Ivanina, D.O., founder of the Center for Integrative Gut Health in New York City; and Lauren Manaker, R.D., dietitian
“Like probiotics, postbiotics are pretty specific in their applications,” Reinagel said. “You want to match the postbiotic to the specific condition it’s been shown to benefit.”
Postbiotics may have many benefits, including reducing inflammation and strengthening your immune system. Studies show that they may have a positive impact on overall digestion, helping prevent and treat diarrhea in some cases.
They are also a simple addition to your routine since they do not need to be refrigerated, and may be safer for people with weakened immune systems.
Unlike probiotics and prebiotics, postbiotics are a newer area of research, and there is still much to be learned. There are also some side effects to be aware of, including bloating and gas, which may be more noticeable for people with pre-existing gut issues. As always, check with a healthcare provider before introducing a new supplement into your routine.
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