Prebiotics are soluble, indigestible fiber contained in some foods. The fiber ferments in the colon and creates short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that can lower inflammation, support gut health and reduce the risk of disease. Not all fiber acts as a prebiotic. That’s because there are two types of dietary fiber … soluble and insoluble.

• Soluble fiber is fermented by gut bacteria when it reaches the colon

• Insoluble fiber is not fermented as it passes through the digestive tract

  Prebiotic Sources

  Fermented Foods (eg. Coconut or Milk Kefir, Apple Cider Vinegar, Goat Yogurt)

  Fermented foods possess probiotic microorganisms that initiate the fermentation process and derive nourishment from the nutrients present in the food. Homemade fermented foods are often an ideal source of viable probiotics, as they offer a freshly available prebiotic substrate for these beneficial bacteria to thrive on. Additionally, incorporating raw apple cider vinegar, kefir, and goat yogurt can further enhance the variety of pre- and probiotic food sources. Olie Naturals New Beginning Liquid Probiotic (link) houses living strains of probiotics within a herbal substrate prepared through fermentation processes.

  Tripe

  It can be argued that tripe is an optimal source of prebiotic nutrition for animals. This assertion arises from the fact that cow stomachs contain partially digested plant material, as well as enzymes and probiotic bacteria. In addition to these benefits, tripe boasts a substantial protein content, making it a valuable component in raw diets when incorporated into several meals each week.

  Wheat Grass (Raw or Powder)

  For optimal nutrition, providing raw blended wheat grass or live wheat grass is ideal, particularly for indoor cats. However, an excellent alternative would be to use wheat grass powder. It is advised to opt for organic wheat grass powder when feeding our dogs with this supplement.

  Blended Green Leafy Vegetables and Roots

  Incorporating a diverse range of blended vegetables into your pet's diet provides them with an assortment of prebiotic fiber sources, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Typically, the recommended amount of ground vegetable matter in a raw dog diet is approximately 25%.

  Ground Flax Seed

  Ground flaxseed is rich in mucilage, a gel-like substance that serves as both a prebiotic and an anti-inflammatory agent for the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have demonstrated its positive effects on gut microbiota and its ability to enhance blood glucose regulation, particularly in overweight women.

  Berries

  Berries constitute an excellent source of prebiotics and contain a substantial amount of antioxidants. Varieties such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, among others can be incorporated into the dietary regimen for optimal outcomes. It is recommended to consume them 2-3 times weekly in order to achieve the desired effects.

  Apples

  Apples serve as an excellent source of prebiotics for animals that do not possess sugar sensitivities, particularly during the fermentation stage.