What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are strains of beneficial bacteria that reside in the body, especially in the digestive tract. The balance of these micro-organisms in the body is influenced by diet, lifestyle factors, environmental toxins, medications and stress, to name a few.
Intestinal balance is necessary for good health and for the synthesis of many essential nutrients, including B vitamins. When your gut is out of balance, undesirable bacteria can proliferate leading to imbalance, which scientists call dysbiosis.
Benefits of Probiotics supplements
Probiotic supplements support with:
- Gut flora restore and balance
- Food digestion
- Digestive comfort for a soothed tummy
- Regular bowel movements
- Appropriate immune response
- Yeast balance
- Smooth skin barrier
- Healthy mood
Probiotic supplements vs. food
Food like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso is where probiotics are found. However, sometimes supplement can be the most convenient choice for few reasons:
- Variable dosage: the probiotic content can vary widely in food, it’s challenging to determine the exact number of live bacteria in it. Probiotic supplements deliver a much higher, specific, and consistent dosage of probiotic stains (Colony-forming units or CFUs).
- Temperature changes: food storage and temperature variation can decrease the presence of live bacteria in food over time. Most supplements use shelf-stable technology, which means they can be stored at room temperature.
- Digestive tract transit: the acid environment of the stomach may challenge survival of many good bacteria we ingest with food. Probiotic supplements use advance technologies such as microencapsulation, delayed release or enteric coated capsules, ensuring they reach the intestines intact.
What are the side effects of Probiotics?
Probiotic supplements can be introduced at every age. From probiotics for babies to pregnant women, to elderly. Probiotics are suitable for most people when taken as directed.
If you’re keen to know more, check out this guide What are probiotics? Benefits, uses & supplements.
