If we do not eat prebiotic and probiotic foods, our gut health can suffer over time, leading to various health issues like-,

1. Poor digestion and bloating: Without probiotics, gut bacteria may become imbalanced, leading to digestive discomfort, bloating, and irregular bowel movements (constipation or diarrhea).
Lack of prebiotics means the beneficial bacteria do not get the fuel they need to thrive.

2. Weakened immune system: Without a balanced gut microbiome, we may become more susceptible to colds, infections, and inflammation.

3. Increased risk of gut dysbiosis: Gut dysbiosis occurs when bad bacteria outnumber healthy bacteria, leading to digestive disorders, inflammation, and even food intolerances.

4. Mood and mental health issues: The gut and brain are linked through the gut-brain axis. A lack of beneficial bacteria may contribute to increased stress, anxiety, and depression.

5. Higher risk of chronic diseases: Poor gut health is linked to long-term health issues like- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), obesity and metabolic disorders, heart disease and diabetes, autoimmune conditions.

6. Poor nutrient absorption: Our gut bacteria help to break down food and absorb nutrients. Without them, our body may struggle to absorb essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, calcium, and magnesium.

7. Increased Inflammation: A lack of prebiotics and probiotics may lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to various diseases, including arthritis and skin conditions like acne and eczema.

Image credit: Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay (Free to use under Pixabay content license)