Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They are often referred to as ‘good’ or ‘friendly’ bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy. Probiotics can be found in supplements and fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Here are 10 surprising benefits of probiotics that you may not have known about.
1. Boosts Immunity
Probiotics help strengthen your immune system by reducing inflammation and fighting off harmful bacteria. Good bacteria in your gut can stimulate the production of natural antibodies and white blood cells, which are important in fighting off infections and diseases.
2. Improves Digestion
Probiotics help break down food in your gut, making it easier to digest and absorb nutrients. They also help prevent diarrhea and constipation by regulating bowel movements.
3. Reduces Inflammation
Probiotics can help reduce inflammation throughout your body, including in your gut, which can lead to a number of health problems like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis.
4. Protects Against Allergies
Probiotics can help prevent allergies by regulating your immune system. They also help reduce inflammation in your gut, which can lead to a reduction in allergies and asthma symptoms.
5. Regulates Hormones
Probiotics can help regulate hormones, which is particularly beneficial for women. Good bacteria in your gut can help reduce the production of harmful estrogen, which can lead to a number of problems like breast cancer, PCOS, and endometriosis.
6. Improves Mental Health
Probiotics have been shown to improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Good bacteria in your gut can also produce serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and sleep.
7. Lowers Cholesterol
Probiotics can help lower cholesterol by breaking down bile in your gut. Bile is a substance that your liver produces to help digest fat. When probiotics break down bile, your liver has to use more cholesterol to produce more bile, which can lead to a reduction in overall cholesterol levels.
8. Prevents and Treats Urinary Tract Infections
Probiotics can help prevent and treat urinary tract infections by promoting the growth of good bacteria in your gut. Good bacteria in your gut can also help prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing in your urinary tract.
9. Helps with Weight Loss
Probiotics can help with weight loss by reducing the number of calories your body absorbs from food. They can also help regulate hormones like insulin and leptin, which are important for appetite control.
10. Improves Skin Health
Probiotics can help improve your skin health by reducing inflammation and regulating the production of sebum, which is the oil that your skin produces. They can also help reduce the symptoms of eczema, acne, and rosacea.
In conclusion, probiotics have numerous benefits for your health, ranging from boosting your immunity to improving your skin health. Adding probiotics to your diet can help you feel better and lead a healthier life. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and add some probiotics to your next meal!
