PREBIOTIC, PROBIOTIC AND POSTBIOTIC

Making sense of the “biotics” in a world full of advice

When one considers that many readers of The Post have at some point consulted Google — or more recently an AI tool — to self-diagnose, compare supplements, or question a prescription, it becomes clear that we are living in an age of abundant information.

So, far be it from me to prescribe anything. But perhaps we can simplify things.

A Prebiotic is essentially food for beneficial bacteria. These are typically fibres found in foods like vegetables, fruit and whole grains that help nourish the microbes already living in your system.

A Probiotic is the bacteria itself — live, beneficial microorganisms that can support the balance of your internal ecosystem.

A Postbiotic, a newer term, refers to the beneficial compounds produced by these bacteria once they have done their work. These include short-chain fatty acids and other metabolites that play a role in overall wellbeing.

There you have it — three “biotics”, each playing a different role.

Practical Advice

The most practical advice I received came not from a textbook, but from a pharmaceutical director many years ago. She pointed out that people often take probiotics at the same time as antibiotics, effectively cancelling out the benefit. Antibiotics are designed to eliminate bacteria — including the helpful ones. Timing matters. Allowing a gap of up to two hours can make all the difference.

Interestingly, research into natural compounds such as humic and fulvic substances suggests that these ancient organic materials, formed over thousands of years, may support microbial activity, nutrient absorption and even immune function. At the same time, the science reminds us that this field is still evolving, and balance remains key.

And perhaps that is the real message.

In a world of powders, pills and promises, it is easy to overcomplicate what has always been simple.

As one grandmother from Springbok once said, after tasting her first ice cream on a visit to Bloubergstrand:

“Dis te lekker — dit moet sonde wees.”

It is a reminder that when something feels too good — or too excessive — it probably is.

Whether it is sugar, supplements or even good intentions, moderation remains a reliable guide.

In the end, balance is still the best companion to good health.

“In a world of powders, pills and promises, it is easy to overcomplicate what has always been simple.”