5 Surprising Ways Probiotics Boost Your Immune System
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that offer a wide range of health benefits, one of which is strengthening the immune system. Our gut hosts around 70% of our immune system cells, and probiotics play a crucial role in regulating and enhancing the immune response. Other than improving digestion and reducing inflammation, here are five surprising ways probiotics can boost your immune system:
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Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs)
UTIs are a common bacterial infection that affects millions of people annually. They are caused by harmful bacteria, such as E. Coli, that travel up the urethra and infect the urinary tract. Probiotics can help prevent UTIs as they produce substances that keep bad bacteria at bay. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, women who consumed probiotics for 24 weeks had a significantly lower incidence of UTIs than those who didn’t take probiotics. The good bacteria that probiotics introduce into the gut also flow through the urethra and help in the fight against UTIs.
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Reducing allergies and asthma
Allergies and asthma are hypersensitive reactions where the immune system reacts excessively to usually harmless substances, such as pollen, dust, and animal dander. Probiotics can help prevent allergies and asthma by modulating the immune system response. They produce immunomodulatory chemicals known as cytokines, which help balance the immune response and reduce inflammation. A 2017 study revealed that prenatal and early-life probiotic supplementation reduced the risk of eczema and asthma in children by up to 50%.
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Boosting vaccine efficacy
Probiotics can help enhance the effectiveness of vaccines by strengthening the immune system response. Vaccines introduce a small amount of a pathogen or toxin into the body to trigger an immune reaction and produce antibodies. Probiotics act as immune adjuvants, which are substances that augment the immune response to the vaccine. A 2014 study published in Expert Review of Vaccines found that probiotics significantly enhanced antibody responses to influenza vaccination in elderly people, who have a weakened immune system compared to younger individuals. Improved vaccine efficacy means a stronger immune system and better protection against infectious diseases.
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Reducing the risk of respiratory infections
Respiratory infections, such as the flu and common cold, are prevalent, and they often spread through the air and contact with contaminated surfaces. Probiotics can help reduce the risk of respiratory infections by producing antibacterial and antiviral substances that prevent the growth and spread of harmful bacteria and viruses. According to a 2015 review published in Nutrition, probiotics were found to reduce the duration and severity of upper respiratory tract infections.
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Improving oral health
Oral health is vital to overall health, and poor oral hygiene can lead to various infections and diseases. Probiotics can help improve oral health by preventing harmful bacteria from growing and reducing inflammation in the mouth. A 2015 study found that probiotics reduced the incidence of plaque and gingivitis in participants who consumed probiotic milk for 8 weeks. Other studies have shown that probiotics can help prevent oral thrush, a fungal infection that affects the mouth and throat.
Probiotics can offer numerous health benefits, and boosting the immune system response is one of their most significant advantages. From preventing UTIs and respiratory infections to improving oral health and enhancing vaccine efficacy, incorporating probiotics into your daily diet can help keep your immune system healthy and strong.
