7 Benefits Of Probiotics
You may consider your body a temple, but it’s actually more like a factory. It takes in raw materials and converts them into the products you need to survive. Of course, no factory would be complete without a workforce. In your digestive tract, this takes the form of microorganisms that perform a variety of functions that can keep you healthy. This is why an increasing number of people have added probiotics to their wellness regimens.
The most common benefit for most is better digestive health. But probiotics also may be able to help in some surprising ways. Understanding this supplement and what it can do for you could mean that your body’s most important product will be a healthier, happier you. For answers to common questions about probiotics and seven ways they may be beneficial, keep reading.
What Are Probiotics?
The term refers to any bacteria that can have beneficial effects for you. Trillions of these tiny microorganisms live in your gut where they help maintain your overall well-being.
What Do Probiotics Do?
Research suggests that this type of bacteria may affect how well your digestive system works by influencing nerves that control your gut’s movement. Although the exact processes are not completely understood, evidence suggests that probiotics may help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in your intestines.
Are Probiotics Safe?
Although many types of bacteria cause illnesses, the microorganisms found in probiotic supplements are believed to be benign for most people. Some people may experience mild side effects as their bodies adjust to them. However, the fact that common foods such as yogurt contain probiotics means they are generally safe.
When Is the Best Time to Take Probiotics?
According to many nutritionists, probiotics should be consumed just before meals to receive the maximum effect. This is because stomach acid levels are at their lowest just before eating, which means more of the microorganisms will survive the trip into the intestines.
What Are the Benefits of Probiotics?
The key advantage most people get from taking probiotic supplements is a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in their digestive systems. However, this may not be the only way in which probiotics can healthful. Some unexpected benefits may include:
-
Stronger immune system — Studies have found that some types of probiotics may stimulate the production of antibodies, helping you fight infection.
-
Fewer upset stomachs — If you suffer from diarrhea while taking antibiotics, probiotics may alleviate the symptoms. They also have been shown to lessen the symptoms of other gastrointestinal illnesses.
-
Weight loss — Some studies suggest that certain types of probiotics may prevent fat from being absorbed by the intestine, keeping it from going to your waistline.
-
Eczema relief — Probiotic supplements have been linked to a lower occurrence of eczema in children and infants, although more research is needed.
-
Heart health — These microorganisms may contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system by lowering the levels of harmful cholesterol in your body.
-
Help with digestive disorders — People who suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis have reported a reduction in their symptoms while taking certain probiotic supplements.
- Mental health — Some strains of these microorganisms may provide relief for those suffering from depression, anxiety and stress, according to recent studies.
Adding Probiotics to Your Diet
If you want to see for yourself if probiotics can help you, there are a number of ways you can add them to your diet. Yogurt and kefir are two of the most popular because they feature active cultures. However, you also can take probiotics in capsule form or in a protein shake. Complete Nutrition offers these supplements as part of our extensive selection of wellness products, so take a look and find which one is right for you.