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Published on April 10, 2025

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Probiotics and Prebiotics

Photo of a woman with a hand over her lower abdomen

What You Should Know

You have more than 100 trillion bacteria living in your digestive system. That’s about the same amount as the number of cells in your body. Some of these bacteria are harmful, but many of them are good. Helping good bacteria thrive may benefit your digestion and health.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It's very important to have the right balance of bacteria for many reasons because gut bacteria plays an important role in your overall health and wellness. But the right bacteria help individuals with IBS.

Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial bacteria in the colon. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide digestive benefits. Both prebiotics and probiotics have been studied as a potential treatment for IBS.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live organisms that live in your body. They are available in some foods and have many potential health benefits. They may:

  • Boost your immune system
  • Keep your skin healthy
  • Help ease irritable bowel syndrome symptoms
  • Relieve diarrhea

Yogurt is a popular probiotic option. Look for yogurt that says it has “live active cultures.” Fermented foods like kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and tempeh also contain this good bacteria.

What are prebiotics?

Prebiotics are certain foods that help support the good bacteria in your gut. Particular types of fiber are prebiotics. They may aid your digestion and help your body absorb calcium.

Consider adding these prebiotic foods to your grocery cart:

  • Bananas
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Artichokes
  • Soybeans
  • Whole grain items such as wheat, barley, and oats

Prebiotic foods help probiotics work. For the biggest benefit, eat them together. For example, try yogurt topped with bananas. Or make a tempeh dish that includes onion and garlic.

What about supplements?

While probiotic supplements are readily available online, at grocery stores, and at pharmacies, these products aren’t currently approved by the FDA to treat any specific diseases or health conditions. 

PIH Health Digestive Health Specialist, Ashwin Ashok MD says, “If you suffer from IBS, a trial of probiotics may be beneficial and there is little harm.” Dr. Ashok also says, “Probiotics do not work for everyone, but for those with a favorable response, they can be indispensable.”

Prebiotics are available as supplements, too. But the same rule applies: Talk with your provider before purchasing or using a prebiotic supplement.

Prebiotics may be a potential therapeutic option for IBS, but more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and optimal dosage. They may improve gut health and reduce IBS symptoms, but it is important to note that individual results may vary. 

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of IBS, it’s important to consult with a doctor before starting any type of prebiotic or probiotic regimen. A doctor can help you determine the right care plan.

To learn more about Digestive Health Services at PIH Health, visit PIHHealth.org/DHS.

The information in Healthy Living Online is for educational purposes only.  It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice.  The reader should always consult his or her healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation, or if they have any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment plan.

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