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Probiotics - what are they and do you need them

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Probiotics are the “good” microorganisms beneficial to our body that can be consumed through fermented foods or supplements. They are the same, or similar, to the bacteria naturally present in our digestive tract. In fact, there are a greater number of bacteria in the intestines than there are cells in our body!

Studies have demonstrated that the balance of bacteria in your digestive system is linked to overall health and disease. Probiotics help by promoting the healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Yoghurt is a good form of natural probiotics

Good verses the bad bacteria
Not all of the bacteria in the body are good and having too many of the "bad" and not enough of the "good" bacteria in our digestive system can affect your health.

Some diseases, a diet high in fats or not enough fruit and vegetables, drinking alcohol, smoking, physical inactivity, antibiotics and ageing can all disrupt this balance.

The imbalance can lead to:

weight gain

skin conditions

constipation or diarrhea

skin conditions

various chronic health conditions.

What are the dietary sources of probiotics?

Sauerkraut is a popular probiotic

Probiotics are naturally found in some foods, including:

some yogurts

some cheeses

Lactobacillus milk or kefir

fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut

kimchi.

Make this sauerkraut remedy for gut and skin issues (recipe link below)

Should I consider taking a probiotic dietary supplement?
A probiotic dietary supplement can aid your health in a variety of ways and is beneficial if you are unable to consume them naturally in foods.

Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, Saccharomyces boulardii and Bacillus coagulans are the most common bacteria used in probiotic dietary supplements. Each type and strain within each type can have a different effect in the body. It is important to investigate which is the best probiotic for your health concern.

Starting with probiotics that contain the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families is a good immune boost, as these strains are normally found in the human gastrointestinal tract.

How can a probiotic dietary supplement affect my health?
The right type and amount of a probiotic can help keep the digestive system healthy and effective. They can:

reduce gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhoea and irritable bowel syndrome

boost a healthy immune system

improve blood cholesterol levels

reduce blood pressure

support a weight management program

improve blood glucose tolerance and diabetes control.

If you are lactose intolerant make sure you use a dairy-free probiotic!

Do you naturally consume probiotics or have a supplement?

Related
Kefir a probiotic powerhouse
Sauerkraut remedy for gut and skin issues
Homemade almond yoghurt

Categories
#Health & well being

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