Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer numerous health benefits when consumed in the form of supplements or certain foods. They are often referred to as friendly bacteria because they help maintain the delicate balance of bacteria in the gut, which plays a crucial role in keeping our bodies healthy. In this article, we’ll discuss 10 surprising benefits of probiotics that you may not know about.
1. Improved Digestion
Probiotics are particularly beneficial for digestion because they help break down and absorb nutrients from food. They balance the pH level in the gut, which enables proper digestion and reduces bloating, gas, and constipation. Research shows that certain probiotic strains may even ease symptoms of more severe digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
2. Boosted Immune System
The gut is home to 70% of the immune system. When the balance of bacteria in the gut is disrupted, it can weaken the immune system and make you more susceptible to illnesses. Probiotics help maintain the balance of bacteria in the gut and boost the immune system, which may help fight off disease-causing viruses and bacteria.
3. Reduced Inflammation
Chronic inflammation in the body is linked to several health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Probiotics may help reduce inflammation by improving gut health. Studies have found that certain probiotic strains can reduce inflammation in the gut and other parts of the body by reducing the production of inflammatory markers.
4. Better Mental Health
Studies have shown that there is a link between gut health and mental health. The gut and brain communicate via the gut-brain axis, which allows them to influence each other’s function. Probiotics may help improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
5. Lower Cholesterol Levels
High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for heart disease. Probiotics may help lower cholesterol levels by reducing the absorption of dietary cholesterol and producing compounds that prevent cholesterol from being absorbed by the body. Studies have found that certain strains of probiotics can reduce total cholesterol levels by up to 11%.
6. Improved Skin Health
The gut-skin axis is a complex interplay between the gut and skin. Imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to several skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea. Probiotics may help improve skin health by balancing gut bacteria and reducing inflammation in the body.
7. Better Oral Health
Oral health is not just about brushing and flossing. The balance of bacteria in the mouth plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Certain probiotic strains may help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by preventing harmful bacteria from colonizing in the mouth.
8. Enhanced Nutrient Absorption
The bacteria in the gut help break down and absorb nutrients from food. Imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies. Probiotics may help enhance nutrient absorption by balancing gut bacteria and improving gut health.
9. Reduced Allergy Symptoms
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances such as pollen, dust, and animal dander. Certain probiotics may help reduce allergy symptoms by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation in the body.
10. Improved Athletic Performance
Probiotics may also benefit athletes by improving gut health and reducing inflammation in the body. Studies have found that certain probiotic strains can reduce muscle damage and improve muscle recovery after exercise.
Probiotics offer numerous health benefits that extend far beyond just improving digestion. They play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of bacteria in the gut, which influences various aspects of overall health. Consider supplementing your diet with probiotics or consuming probiotic-rich foods to reap the numerous benefits they offer.
