Probiotics are known to be good for gut health, but did you know that they can benefit the body in other ways too? Here are 10 surprising benefits of probiotics that you may have never known existed:
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Boost Immune System
Probiotics can help the body’s immune system by building up healthy bacteria in the gut, strengthening the gut barrier, and supporting T cells that fight off infection. Probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and vaginal infections.
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Improve Mental Health
There is a strong connection between the gut and the brain, and probiotics can help to improve mental health. Probiotics have been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. They can also improve cognitive function and memory.
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Reduce Inflammation
Probiotics can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to a number of chronic health conditions. Probiotics have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut as well as in other parts of the body. This can lead to reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
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Lower Blood Pressure
Probiotics can help to lower blood pressure by improving cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation. A study published in the journal Hypertension found that probiotics reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 3.56 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 2.38 mm Hg.
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Improve Skin Health
The gut-skin axis is a connection between the gut and the skin, and probiotics can help to improve skin health by supporting a healthy gut microbiome. Probiotics have been shown to be effective in treating acne, eczema, and rosacea.
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Reduce Allergies
Probiotics can help to reduce allergies by supporting a healthy immune system. Probiotics have been shown to reduce symptoms of allergies, including runny nose, itchy eyes, and congestion.
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Improve Heart Health
Probiotics can help to improve heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
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Assist with Weight Loss
Probiotics can help with weight loss by improving gut health and reducing inflammation. Probiotics have been shown to reduce body weight, BMI, and fat mass in overweight and obese individuals.
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Improve Digestion
Probiotics can help to improve digestion by breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. Probiotics have been shown to reduce symptoms of digestive disorders, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
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Reduce Risk of Cancer
Probiotics can help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer by supporting a healthy immune system and reducing inflammation. Probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and breast cancer.
There are many benefits of probiotics that go beyond just gut health. Adding probiotic-rich foods to your diet, such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, can help to support a healthy gut microbiome. You can also take a probiotic supplement to ensure that you are getting enough of these beneficial bacteria.
