The relationship between prebiotics and probiotics in terms of timing for maximal effectiveness is not strictly defined, but there are a few considerations based on current evidence.

1. Timing and Co-consumption: Studies suggest that taking probiotics with or just prior to a meal containing some fats may improve their survival as they transit through the digestive tract. This indicates that timing with a meal, rather than just the timing between prebiotics and probiotics, can be more crucial¹. The presence of food can help buffer the stomach environment and improve the chances of the probiotics reaching the intestines alive.

2. Benefits of Synbiotics: While prebiotics serve as the "food" for beneficial microbes, probiotics are the beneficial microbes themselves. Combining them—known as synbiotics—can potentially enhance the growth and survival of beneficial bacteria, but the necessity of taking them together at the same moment is not well documented².

3. Existing Gut Microbes: The prebiotic fibers you are consuming do indeed provide fuel for existing beneficial gut bacteria. This can be sufficient for maintaining gut health for many individuals. However, probiotic supplements might be beneficial for people with specific health conditions or those who have had intestinal flora disrupted by antibiotics or illness.

In summary, while combining prebiotics and probiotics can be beneficial, it's more about the overall consistency of intake and not necessarily about precise timing. Your dietary fibers and prebiotics will still support the existing gut bacteria even if you don't take probiotics immediately after. Probiotic supplementation may be more necessary depending on individual gut health needs or dietary patterns.