Did You Know? - The Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics are foods that contain live and active cultures of good bacterial strains.

Consuming probiotics adds to your gut microbiome. This is the ecosystem of beneficial microorganisms – including bacteria, fungi, and yeast – that live in the intestines.

A strong, diverse microbiome assists in many body systems and withstands unexpected changes due to stress.

Some probiotic foods you can consider adding to your diet to boost your gut health include:

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Tempeh
• Pickles and pickled vegetables

The Most Beneficial Probiotic Strains

Probiotic foods and supplements are recommended to improve your microbiome and overall health.

Utilizing supplements to replenish the microbiota and feed existing colonies is always important, but especially encouraged after bacteria-depleting events, such as a taxing illness or after taking antibiotics.

The most beneficial probiotic strains you should look for in a probiotic supplement includes:

• Bifidobacterium strains ( breve)
• Lactobacillus strains ( acidophilus and L. rhamnosus)
• Saccharomyces strains (S.boulardii)

3 Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics improve the function of the gut microbiome, but also the health of three essential body systems – the gut, brain and immune system.

1. Improve Gut and Digestive Health

Probiotics provide a variety of benefits in your gut and digestive system.

Not only do these foods boost the strength of your gut microbiome, but they      also improve digestion. Increases in beneficial bacteria in the gut improves food breakdown in the stomach and enhances nutrient absorption in the intestines.

2. Boots Immune System Health

Probiotics can also boost your immune system and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut.

Beneficial bacterial strains fight away invading pathogens that can cause illness and infection. They can also communication with the immune system to stimulate immune reactions to keep the body safe and healthy.

3. Enhances Brain Health

The gut and brain share engage in constant physical and chemical communication. The gut microbiome also plays an essential role, sometimes being called the “second brain.” Beneficial microbes, including bacteria sends information back in forth the brain, which influences your behavior and health.

Having a strong, diversified microbiome can improve brain function while reducing mood swings, stress, and chronic inflammation.

Dosage Recommendations

The most effective probiotics contain a dosage of between 10 to 50 billion CFUs per dose.

It may also be beneficial to seek a non-refrigerated probiotic option, due to faster bacteria metabolism connected to moderate storage temperatures.

Could a Probiotic Supplement Benefit Your Health?

If you’re interested in improving the health of your gut, immune system, and brain, boost the number of probiotic foods in your diet.

But if you’re still not consuming enough foods in your day that contain the live bacteria cultures to fortify the gut microbiome,  a probiotic supplement may be a great option for you.

Make sure to purchase your supplement from a reputable supplier that uses the highest quality ingredients and the most beneficial probiotic strains in their supplements.

Author: Allison Lansman, RDN, LD

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