Probiotics are all the buzz these days. You’ll find them mentioned everywhere from the news, to TV, to influencers. But the hype around them actually has substance. Today, we’ll discuss several benefits of probiotics and their impact on your health.
Simply put, probiotics are live microbes that are found naturally in fermented foods or can be supplemented.
Examples of fermented foods are yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha etc.
Don’t be surprised, but there are millions of microbes inside your gut. There are thousands of species and subtypes. In fact, studies of stool samples reveal link between the type of microorganisms and chances of different diseases.
Probiotics bridge this gap and help achieve the right microbial balance inside your gut. The opposite effect of this is created by antibiotics you consume for infections. Antibiotics kill the gut bacteria, even the ones that are good for you. That’s why you experience diarrhea as a side effect after a course of antibiotics.
Let’s start with the multitude of benefits that probiotics have to offer.
First and the most important benefit is their role in digestion.
Probiotics promote the growth of good, friendly bacteria that help in the process of digestion. These bacteria help you digest food substances through various enzymes, that are not made by the human body.
This also helps avoid constipation and keep you regular in bowel movements.
Probiotics are also helpful in various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract like IBD(Inflammatory Bowel Disease), Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s disease & Ulcerative colitis.
Secondly, probiotics can improve the mental well-being of the individual. The bacteria in your gut are linked to your nervous system.
That’s why probiotics are a great adjuvant in therapy for mental disorders like autism, depression, anxiety etc.
Third key benefit of probiotics is on markers of inflammation. Probiotics are found to reduce levels of inflammatory markers. This in turn also has a positive influence on heart health. Markers like C-Reactive Protein (CRP) & Low density Lipoprotein(LDL) cholesterol.
Next benefit of probiotics is their impact on our immunity. They reduce the chances of infections by boosting the immune response..
Probiotics are also helpful in allergic conditions.
A big reason for the buzz around probiotics can be attributed to their role in weight management. The right microbial balance can help in achieving a good metabolism.
Natural sources of probiotics have been mentioned above, lets talk about probiotic supplements.
Probiotic supplements are offered in different dosages, measured in CFU (Colony-Forming Units). Be sure to look for acid-resistant tablets. Lactobacillus & Bifidobacterium are the commonly offered.
Always start slow and choose lower dosages. Slowly increase doses as you get used to them. Always consume them before meals.