Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be ingested through supplements and foods. Several studies have shown that the balance or imbalance of bacteria in the gut system is linked to diseases and overall health.
Probiotic foods and supplements promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive system and are linked to various benefits. In this post, we will discuss what probiotic supplements are and why you need to take them.
Understanding probiotics
Probiotics are a group of live beneficial yeasts or bacteria that live naturally in the body. Although bacteria are usually viewed in a bad light, there are two types of bacteria-the good and bad ones.
Probiotic supplement, however, is made of good bacteria that help your body stay healthy and function well. Probiotics help our body in so many ways, such as fighting harmful bacteria, inhibiting the growth of sexually transmitted yeast infections, and helping you feel better, among others.
Probiotics are a part of the whole microbiome system, which covers the entire bacteria and your body. Everyone has a unique set of microbiomes, and even twins don’t share one.
Although the most common part of the body that is known to have probiotics, there are several other places that house microbes. Usually, these parts are in frequent contact with the outside world, including;
ü Gut.
ü Vagina.
ü Mouth.
ü Lungs.
ü Skin.
ü Urinary tract.
Benefits of probiotic supplements.
The benefits of probiotics include the following;
1. It helps balance good bacteria in the digestive system.
An imbalance in the gut system refers to the excess of bad bacteria than the good works. This can happen due to poor lifestyle, illness, medication, etc.
The results can include digestive problems, mental health issues, obesity, and many more. Fortunately, probiotic supplements are healthy and can be taken by anyone.
2. Helps improve some mental health problems.
Several studies have recently been linking gut health to mood and some mental health problems. Both human and animal studies have found that probiotic supplements help cure various mental health disorders.
One study found out that eight weeks of taking probiotic supplements leads to decreased levels of depression and C-reactive protein and hormones like insulin than those who did not take them.
3. Certain strains may help keep your heart healthy.
Probiotic supplements may keep your heart healthy by reducing LDL or “bad” cholesterol and blood pressure, which are responsible for cardiovascular diseases. Some lactic acid-producing microbes may limit cholesterol by breaking down gut bile.
Bile is a naturally occurring fluid majorly made of cholesterol and helps in digestion. When broken down, probiotics prevent it from getting back into the system as “bad” cholesterol.
4. May reduce the severity of certain eczema and allergies.
Probiotics have long been used to remedy certain allergies and skin problems in infants and children.
Skin problems brought by sexually transmitted diseases are the ones that are usually solved by good bacteria. However, the link between eczema is still weak and is yet to be approved by the FDA.
5. Helps lose weight and belly fat.
These supplements may help people lose weight through different mechanisms. For instance, probiotics may minimize the absorption of dietary fats through the intestines. These fats are then excreted through the stool instead of remaining in the body.
While other strains are linked to weight gain, you can start your weight loss journey by consulting a doctor on the best strain for weight loss.
More studies, however, are needed to find the link between these supplements and belly fat loss.
Conclusion.
Probiotic supplements are artificial microbes that are made to boost your health in many positive ways. There is substantial evidence that probiotics can reduce inflammation and, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and even lose weight and belly fat.
While there are heart health benefits, not all are good for your heart, and you need to consult a health professional to guide you.