4 Surprising Benefits of Probiotics You Never Knew
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They help in maintaining the balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut, thus aiding in digestion and overall health. While the benefits of probiotics are not new, the extent to which they can improve your health is still surprising. Here are four benefits of probiotics that you probably didn’t know about.
1. Boosts Your Mood
Your gut and your brain are connected, and your gut health can affect your mental health. Probiotics can improve your mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Researchers have found that people who regularly consume probiotics have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which is linked to anxiety and depression.
2. Helps Control Blood Sugar
Probiotics can help in controlling blood sugar levels, especially in people with type 2 diabetes. They reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity, thus making it easier for your body to use insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Some studies have also shown that probiotics can reduce fasting blood sugar levels and hemoglobin A1C levels in people with diabetes.
3. Boosts Immune System
Probiotics can boost your immune system by increasing the production of antibodies and stimulating the activity of immune cells. They also reduce inflammation in the gut, which can help in reducing symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis.
4. Reduces Allergy Symptoms
Probiotics can reduce allergy symptoms by reducing inflammation in the gut and improving the barrier function of the gut lining. This prevents allergens from entering your bloodstream and causing an allergic reaction. Some studies have also shown that probiotics can reduce symptoms of eczema and asthma in children.
Probiotics are available in many forms such as supplements, fermented foods, and drinks. You can get probiotics from foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso. However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any probiotic supplements, especially if you have a weakened immune system or are undergoing treatment for a medical condition.
Probiotics are generally considered safe but can cause side effects such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea in some people, especially in the initial stages of probiotic consumption. It is advisable to start with a small dose of probiotics and gradually increase the dose over time.
Overall, probiotics offer numerous health benefits, and incorporating them into your diet can improve your overall health and well-being. With regular consumption of probiotics, you can boost your mood, control your blood sugar levels, improve your immune system, and reduce allergy symptoms. So start adding probiotics to your diet and reap the benefits!
