5 Surprising Benefits of Probiotics That You Didn’t Know About

5 Surprising Benefits of Probiotics That You Didn’t Know About

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. We usually think of bacteria and other microorganisms as harmful, but the truth is that we have a microbiome in our bodies that is essential to our overall well-being. Here are five surprising benefits of probiotics that you may not have known about:

1. Probiotics Can Improve Mental Health

   Research has found that probiotics may have a positive effect on mental health. Studies show that probiotics can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. One study found that people who took a probiotic supplement for four weeks had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than those who did not take the supplement. Another study found that probiotics could reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve mood in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Probiotics Can Boost Immunity

   Probiotics help to strengthen the immune system by increasing the production of antibodies. These antibodies help to fight off harmful microorganisms and prevent infections from taking hold in the body. Studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections and intestinal infections, as well as prevent the development of allergies.

3. Probiotics Can Improve Heart Health

   Probiotics may also have a positive effect on heart health. Research has found that probiotics can reduce blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease. One study found that taking a probiotic supplement for eight weeks reduced LDL cholesterol levels by almost 12%, while another study found that probiotics could lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.

4. Probiotics Can Improve Skin Health

   Probiotics can also help to improve skin health. Studies have found that probiotics can reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of eczema and acne. One study found that taking a probiotic supplement for 12 weeks reduced the severity of acne in participants by almost 50%. Another study found that applying probiotics topically to the skin could reduce the severity of eczema in children.

5. Probiotics Can Improve Gut Health

   Of course, one of the most well-known benefits of probiotics is their ability to improve gut health. Probiotics can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut and improve digestion. They can also help to relieve symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and diarrhea.

Overall, probiotics are a versatile and beneficial addition to anyone’s diet. They can improve mental health, boost immunity, improve heart health, improve skin health, and improve gut health. If you’re looking to improve your overall well-being, consider adding probiotics to your daily routine.