Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that reside in the human body, primarily in the gut. While the word” bacteria” typically connotes something harmful, research has shown that some of the strains of bacteria are beneficial. These beneficial bacteria are what are referred to as probiotics and have numerous health benefits that you may not be aware of.
Here are ten surprising benefits of probiotics that you need to know:
- Improved Digestion: Probiotics help to break down food in the digestive tract, converting them into essential nutrients that the body can utilize. Consuming probiotics can help to improve digestive health.
- Boosts The Immune System: Researchers have shown that beneficial bacteria can help to boost the immune system, making it better equipped to combat illnesses and infections.
- Helps to Manage Anxiety and Depression: The gut and brain are connected, and it is now a fact that the gut can affect mood and anxiety levels. Probiotics have been shown to help manage anxiety and depression by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Helps To Improve Skin Health: Some research has linked probiotic consumption with improved skin health. A study conducted found that consuming probiotics improved atopic dermatitis symptoms in children.
- Supports Healthy Weight Loss: Some studies have discovered that probiotics can help to regulate metabolism and support healthy weight loss. However, it is important to ensure that you are consuming the right strains of probiotics for weight loss.
- Improves Heart Health: Some strains of probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains, are known to reduce cholesterol levels, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
- Reduces Vaginal Infections: Consuming probiotics can help reduce the likelihood of developing vaginal infections such as Bacterial Vaginosis and Yeast Infections.
- May Help to Manage Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be managed with the consumption of probiotics, especially Lactobacillus strains.
- Helps Children with Asthma: Studies have shown that probiotic consumption in infants can help reduce the risk of developing asthma in childhood.
- Reduces Inflammation: People who have chronic inflammation can benefit significantly from consuming probiotics, as they have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the gut as well as inflammation throughout the body.
Probiotics are an essential aspect of overall health, and they offer numerous benefits that you may not be aware of. While these health benefits are encouraging, it is important to consume probiotics regularly, preferably through a healthy diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods. You can also incorporate probiotic supplements into your diet if you have specific health concerns that you would like to address.
Remember that these health benefits will not happen overnight, and it may take some time before you can notice significant health improvements. However, incorporating probiotics into your daily routine can help you achieve better digestive health, reduce anxiety, and support healthy weight loss, among other health benefits.
