Are There Probiotics In Honey?

Probiotics consist of healthy, or "friendly," bacteria that promote and maintain a healthy digestive tract. Prebiotics, which are non-digestible supplements, help modify the balance of healthy bacteria in the intestines. Although honey is not considered a probiotic, it does serve as a prebiotic. Consult your physician before using honey as a prebiotic to treat certain health conditions.

Probiotics

Probiotics, present in cultured foods and dietary supplements, contain live microorganisms that provide healthy benefits when used on a regular basis. Most probiotics consist of a type of healthy bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium bifidum. Probiotics help replenish healthy bacteria in the intestine, which improves digestion, strengthens the immune system and reduces your risk of bacterial infection. These healthy bacteria protect the gut from bacterial infections caused by harmful bacteria. Sources of probiotics include cultured dairy products, some fermented soy products and dietary supplements.

Prebiotics

Although prebiotics are related to probiotics, they do not serve the same purpose. Prebiotics, also known as fermentable fiber, consist of non-digestible nutrients that healthy bacteria need to thrive in your intestinal tract. According to MayoClinic.com, preliminary research indicates that prebiotics may aid in improving digestion issues, calcium absorption and strengthening your immune system. Prebiotics are naturally present in certain foods, including bananas, flax, legumes, barley, berries and honey.

Honey's Prebiotic Benefits

Honey may affect the growth and activity of Bifidobacterium, a probiotic present in the mouth, vagina and gastrointestinal tract, in the intestines. Research funded by the National Honey Board and performed by Michigan State University in 2001 discovered a correlation between honey and the growth of Bifidocaterium cells in the intestines, which may improve the health of the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, a 2005 study published in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" reveals that honey oligosaccharides seem to increase the growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

Considerations

Although research shows that honey has potential to serve as a prebiotic substance, evidence using human subjects is lacking. Avoid giving honey to children younger than 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism. Changes in the bacteria of your intestines may cause side effects, including gas, upset stomach and bloating. Consult your physician before using honey or any other food as a prebiotic to treat health conditions.