10 Surprising Benefits of Probiotics You Never Knew Existed
If you’re into maintaining good health and a healthy gut, you probably already know about probiotics. These supplements and fermented foods are known for their association with gut health and digestion. But did you know that there are several other benefits of probiotics that are often overlooked? From skin health to immune system support, probiotics have many incredible benefits that you may never have considered. Here, we’ll explore 10 surprising benefits of probiotics to help you understand how they can benefit your overall health and wellbeing.
1. Probiotics Help to Boost Immune System
One of the primary benefits of probiotics is that they can help to boost your immune system. They work by increasing the number of immune cells in your gut, which can help to prevent viral and bacterial infections. Additionally, probiotics can also help to reduce inflammation and prevent autoimmune diseases by regulating the activity of the immune system.
2. Probiotics Can Improve Your Mental Health
You may not realize this, but your gut bacteria can have a significant impact on your mental health. Many studies have shown that people who take probiotics consistently have lower levels of anxiety, stress, and depression. These benefits may be due to the fact that probiotics can help to regulate serotonin production in the gut, which can contribute to improved mental health.
3. Probiotics Can Reduce Your Cholesterol Levels
Did you know that probiotics can also help to reduce your cholesterol levels? Studies have shown that probiotics can help to lower LDL cholesterol levels (bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels. These benefits can help to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
4. Probiotics Can Help to Improve Your Skin Health
If you struggle with skin issues such as acne, eczema or psoriasis, probiotics may be able to help. These supplements can help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can also help to reduce the appearance of skin irritation. Additionally, probiotics can help to improve the overall barrier function of your skin, helping to keep it healthy and hydrated.
5. Probiotics Can Help with Weight Management
Struggling with weight loss? Probiotics might be able to help. These supplements can help to regulate the hormones that control your appetite, helping to reduce cravings and curb your appetite. Additionally, probiotics can help to improve your gut health, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve metabolism.
6. Probiotics Can Improve Digestive Health
Of course, one of the primary benefits of probiotics is that they can help to improve your digestive health. These supplements work by increasing the amount of good bacteria in your gut, helping to prevent constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. Additionally, probiotics can help to soothe inflammation in the gut, helping to reduce symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.
7. Probiotics Can Help to Relieve Allergies and Asthma
If you suffer from allergies or asthma, probiotics may be able to help. These supplements can help to reduce inflammation in the airways, helping to prevent the onset of asthma symptoms. Additionally, probiotics can help to regulate the immune system, helping to reduce histamine production and prevent allergic reactions.
8. Probiotics Can Support Oral Health
Believe it or not, your gut bacteria can also have an impact on your oral health. Studies have shown that probiotics can help to reduce the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. Additionally, probiotics can help to freshen your breath by reducing the amount of bacteria that cause bad breath.
9. Probiotics Can Help to Prevent Cancer
While more research is needed in this area, some studies have suggested that probiotics may be able to help prevent certain types of cancer. These supplements work by regulating the gut microbiota, which can help to reduce the risk of cancer cell growth.
10. Probiotics Can Help to Improve Your Sleep
Finally, probiotics may be able to help you get a better night’s sleep. These supplements can help to regulate the amount of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, which can help to improve sleep quality and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.
