These antioxidant and soluble-fiber compounds encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract, increasing probiotics' efficacy. They may also enhance calcium and magnesium absorption. Prebiotic-rich foods include whole-wheat products, fresh herbs, peanuts, barley, beans, bananas, asparagus, cherries, eggplant, peas, onions, tea, and oats.

Learn more about this and other natural terms at deliciousliving.com/glossary.