The Power of Prebiotics: Why They Matter for Kids (and Grown-Ups Too)

You’ve heard of probiotics, but prebiotics might be the real gut heroes. 

We’re passionate about creating treats that are not only delicious but are also rooted in science. That’s why you’ll find prebiotics on the ingredient list in our new SuperJuice® Prebiotic Juice Boxes. These juice boxes offer more than a refreshing sip, they may also help fuel a healthy gut.

What Are Prebiotics?

You’ve probably heard of probiotics, the good bacteria that may help support your digestive and immune systems. But have you heard of prebiotics? Prebiotics are a special type of dietary fiber that acts as food for probiotics. Unlike probiotics, which are live organisms, prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that travel to your gut and help the good bacteria grow happy and healthy.

Natural sources of prebiotics include:

  • Cassava root
  • Chicory root
  • Garlic and onions
  • Bananas
  • Jerusalem artichoke

Why Prebiotics Are Great For Kids 

Growing bodies need strong foundations, and the gut is at the center of it all. In fact, research shows that a large portion of the immune system is associated with the gut.[1] Supporting a healthy microbiome early in life can make a big difference for digestion, immunity, and even energy, mood, and focus.

That’s why we have added plant-based prebiotics to our new kid-friendly juice boxes.

Prebiotics can:

  • Support healthy digestion: Fewer tummy troubles, more smiles.
  • Promote balanced energy: A happy gut helps absorb the good stuff like vitamins and minerals.[2]
  • Help support immune function: A well-fed microbiome is your child’s built-in defense system.[3]

 

A healthy gut helps the body make the most of the nutrients in food, supporting energy for play, learning, and growth. While there are many prebiotic ingredients available, we chose to include 1g of organic cassava root fiber in our juice boxes. We also believe that kids benefit most from enjoying a variety of fiber-rich and prebiotic foods as part of a balanced diet.


What is Cassava Root? 

Cassava is a root vegetable, similar to a sweet potato or yam, that can be used as a source of prebiotic fiber in foods and beverages. Because cassava fiber is virtually tasteless, it blends seamlessly into fruit juice, helping add fiber without getting in the way of the fruity flavors kids love.[4

Are Prebiotics Safe for Kids?

Yes! Prebiotics are naturally found in many foods that kids eat every day, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, for healthy children, prebiotics are generally considered a safe and beneficial part of a balanced diet because they help nourish the beneficial bacteria that live in the gut.[5]

Making Better Choices a Little Easier

While our SuperJuice® Prebiotic Juice Boxes provide a source of prebiotic fiber, they're just one piece of the puzzle. A variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds can also help support a healthy gut microbiome.

From lunchboxes to after-school snacks, we believe your kids deserve treats that do more than just taste good, they should help them feel good too!


Sources
1.      Nzikou, Josué M., Esther Loumouamou, Dieudonné Kimbonguila, et al. “Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Root and Leaves: Nutritional Composition, Functional Properties and Applications—A Review.” International Journal of Food Science, vol. 2021, Article ID 7213104, 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8001875/
2.      Parida, Sailajanandan; Kumar, Suresh S.;  et al. “Nutrition in Preschoolers with Emphasis on Prebiotics: A Review.” Current Pediatric Research, vol. 26, no. 10 (2022). https://www.currentpediatrics.com/articles/nutrition-in-preschoolers-with-emphasis-on-prebiotics-a-review-22611.html
3.      Catanese, L. (2024, May 15). Prebiotics: Understanding their role in gut health. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/prebiotics-understanding-their-role-in-gut-health
4.      Lang, Ariane, BSc, MBA. “What Is Cassava Flour? Benefits, Recipes, and More.” Healthline. Medically reviewed by Jillian Kubala, MS, RD, April 6, 2022. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cassava-flour
5.      American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition. "Probiotics and Prebiotics in Pediatrics." Pediatrics, December 1, 2010 (reaffirmed March 2021). https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/126/6/1217/65014/Probiotics-in-Pediatrics