by Probiotics are living microorganisms that can provide various health benefits when consumed. In recent years, probiotics have gained widespread popularity due to growing research demonstrating their importance for digestive and overall health. Though more research is still needed, current evidence suggests probiotics play a key role in supporting gut and immune function.
Probiotics are “good” or beneficial bacteria and yeasts that are found in some foods and supplements. The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the gut microbiota or gut flora. Probiotics are forms of live microbes that help to maintain or restore balance to this gut microbiota. Some examples of probiotic bacteria include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, while common probiotic yeast includes Saccharomyces boulardii.
When consumed in adequate amounts, probiotics can help support digestive and overall health in the following ways:
– Promoting healthy gut flora: Probiotics help to balance and maintain healthy levels of “good” bacteria in the gut by crowding out “bad” bacteria, fungi and yeasts.
– Supporting digestive health: Probiotics assist with food digestion and absorption of nutrients. They also help regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation and diarrhea.
– Strengthening gut barrier function: Probiotics help protect the gut lining and reinforce its defensivebarrier against pathogens and toxins entering the bloodstream.
– Boosting immune function: Probiotics stimulate the immune system’s response which benefits both digestive and overall immunity throughout the body.
– Producing vitamins: Certain probiotic bacteria synthesize vitamins such as vitamin K and B vitamins that are beneficial for health.
– Reducing inflammation: Probiotics help balance pro- and anti-inflammatory responses in the gut which reduces chronic, systemic inflammation in the body.
Food Sources of Probiotics
There are many foods that naturally contain Probiotics bacteria and can be regularly included in the diet for their health benefits. Some top probiotic foods include:
– Yogurts: Look for yogurts containing live active cultures, such as Greek yogurt.
– Kefir: A fermented dairy beverage containing many probiotic strains.
– Tempeh: A fermented soybean product that provides a meaty texture.
– Miso: A fermented soybean paste commonly used to make soup.
– Kimchi: A traditional Korean fermented cabbage dish.
– Kombucha: Fermented black or green tea that contains various yeasts and acids.
– Sauerkraut: Fermented shredded cabbage high in probiotics.
– Natto: Fermented soybeans with a sticky texture and strong flavor.
Probiotic Supplements
While foods are the best way to get probiotics, supplements can provide concentrated doses for those who need extra support. When choosing a supplement, look for specific probiotic strains listed in colony forming units (CFUs) on the label. Supplements should also indicate the probiotic potency at the end of shelf-life to ensure viability. Some reputed probiotic supplements containing multiple strains include:
– Align: Contains Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, clinically shown to alleviate IBS symptoms.
– Culturelle: A broad spectrum probiotic containing Lactobacillus GG, shown effective for diarrhea and IBS.
– Florastor: Contains Saccharomyces boulardii, effective against antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
– Visbiome: Delivers 8 probiotic strains including Bifidobacterium longum for overall digestive support.
Proper Consumption and Storage
For probiotics to colonize and remain active in the gut, it’s important to consume them properly:
– Store refrigerated for maximum viability as heat and light can destroy live cultures.
– Consume daily, on an empty stomach or with food for optimal absorption.
– Take probiotic supplements at least 2 hours apart from antibiotics which can destroy gut flora.
– Always check “use-by” dates on products and replenish regularly to maintain therapeutic levels.
Probiotics are a vital component of digestive and overall health that deserve regular inclusion in our diets. Both food sources like yogurt and supplements provide accessible options for consuming beneficial live microbes. Following correct storage and dosage guidelines help maximize the health advantages of probiotics. While more research continues, current evidence certainly warrants making room for these “good” bacteria in our routines. A diet rich in probiotic foods coupled with targeted supplements provide a healthy approach worth adopting.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
