Every human body is home to trillions of microorganisms that are present and help our body function better. One of these microorganisms is probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms (microbes) that are present in or on our bodies and have various beneficial effects, especially on our digestive systems. Probiotic supplements are dietary products that contain microbes and offer health benefits when consumed. These microbes are similar to good bacteria in our gut, which play a vital role in digestion, immunity strengthening, and overall well-being.
What are Probiotics Made of?
- Lactobacillus: These are friendly bacteria that live in our digestive, urinary, and genital systems. They promote health by fighting harmful bacteria. These bacteria aid digestion, promote nutrient absorption, and may improve lactose intolerance.
- Bifidobacterium: These are healthy bacteria found in our intestines. They support gut health and immune functioning and reduce diarrhea.
- Saccharomyces Boulardi: These bacteria are probiotic yeast that may help fight bacterial infections and diarrhea.
Health Benefits of Consuming Probiotic Supplements
- Immunity booster: A healthy gut is linked to a stronger immune system. These supplements improve gut health by strengthening the immune system by limiting the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses.
- Oral health: Are you tired of bad breath even though you are maintaining proper hygiene? It might be because of an imbalance in your gut bacteria. Probiotic supplements can help you resolve this issue. These supplements help promote oral health by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. These can help prevent issues like bad breath, gum diseases, and cavities.
- Food digestion: These supplements play a vital role in food digestion by breaking down food more efficiently. This can relieve common digestive issues like gas, bloating, and constipation. They also help in nutrient absorption, which supports overall well-being.
- Reduce allergy: These supplements are believed to play a vital role in relieving allergies and preventing eczema by strengthening the immune system.
- Skin health: These supplements help strengthen skin by, reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, etc., by keeping harmful substances out and locking moisture in. These can also prevent eczema and acne.
- Urinary & vaginal health: These supplements help in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary and vaginal tract by preventing yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, etc.
- Mental health: Gut health and mental well-being are linked. The gut microbes play a vital role in producing neurotransmitters that regulate sleep, mood, and stress. An imbalance in gut bacteria can disrupt the production of neurotransmitters leading to anxiety and stress. These supplements play a crucial role in supporting mental well-being by influencing mood and alleviating depression, stress, and anxiety.
Probiotic supplements offer a wide range of health benefits, whether physical (empowering the gut, immunity booster, etc.) or mental (reducing stress, depression, anxiety, etc.).
How to choose the correct probiotic supplement?
When selecting probiotic supplements, consider all these factors:
- Colony-Forming Units (CFUs)
CFU refers to the unit that estimates the number of viable microbes present. Choose a supplement with an adequate number of CFUs (usually trillions) to ensure effectiveness.
- Storage and Shelf Life
Probiotics are sensitive to heat, moisture, light, etc. Some need to be stored in the refrigerator to keep these supplements effective, whereas some are shelf-stable. Always check storage instructions and expiration dates before buying for its effective use.
When to avoid these supplements?
Although supplements are regarded as healthy, there are some instances when their consumption is not recommended. Consuming supplements in these conditions can cause allergies and infections. Read below to know when you should avoid these supplements:
- Immunosuppressed individuals
People who have weak immunity or are going through any surgery, organ transplants, chemotherapy, or individuals with HIV/AIDS should avoid these supplements. If they want to take these supplements, consulting a doctor is a good option as it may pose a risk of infection.
- Recent Surgery
If you have yet to undergo surgery or have already undergone surgery, it’s best to avoid these supplements until or unless your doctor prescribes them. Low immunity can increase the risk of infection.
- Pregnancy or Breastfeeding
Although probiotic supplements are believed to be safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, still, it’s vital to consult your doctor before taking any. In some cases, your body can detect good bacteria as harmful and can cause allergic reactions which can be harmful for you and your baby.
- Medication Interference
If you are taking any medications, especially antibiotics or antifungals, it’s best to consult your doctor, as these can interfere with your medicines and have some severe side effects.
FAQs About Probiotics
1. Can probiotics help in losing weight?
Some probiotics are believed to help with weight loss, but it’s not scientifically proven yet.
2. Can you get probiotics from food?
Yes, some foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, kombucha, kefir, etc., are natural sources of probiotics. Even if you have these foods in your diet, adding probiotic supplements can be helpful.
3. How long should we take these supplements?
The dosage and duration of these supplements depend upon the individual’s health goals and needs. It varies from person to person. Consult a healthcare professional to get your required dosage.
Final words
Probiotic supplements offer a variety of health benefits, from improving immunity and digestion to supporting oral, skin and vaginal health. By utilizing these powerful bacteria, these supplements are made to keep you healthy physically and mentally. Adding these supplements to your diet is a good option but with the prescription of a professional health care provider. Optimal health is a journey where probiotic supplements can be beneficial to make your journey easy.