Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial for your gut health. They are often found in fermented foods and supplements. The consumption of probiotics is said to be beneficial for your immune system as well. Here, we will discuss 7 surprising ways probiotics boost your immune system.
1. Decreased risk of infections
Probiotics stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting-off infections. They also help to increase the production of antibodies, which help to identify and destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. The consumption of probiotics has been shown to reduce the risk of upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and vaginal infections.
2. Improved gut health
The gut is home to trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. When there is an imbalance of good and bad bacteria, this can lead to digestive issues and inflammation of the gut lining. Probiotics help to restore the balance of good bacteria and promote a healthy gut environment. This, in turn, helps to boost the immune system as the gut is home to 70% of the body’s immune system.
3. Reduced inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a weakened immune system and a higher risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. This helps to boost the immune system and promote overall health.
4. Enhanced vaccine response
Vaccines work by introducing a harmless form of the virus or bacteria into the body. This stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the virus or bacteria, preparing it to fight off a future infection. Probiotics have been shown to enhance the immune system’s response to vaccines. This means that vaccines are more effective when taken alongside probiotics.
5. Improved mental health
The gut-brain axis is a bi-directional communication system between the gut and the brain. This means that the health of the gut can affect the health of the brain and vice versa. Probiotics have been shown to have a positive effect on mental health by reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. This helps to boost the immune system as mental health issues can weaken the immune system.
6. Reduced risk of allergies
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance such as pollen, dust, or certain foods. Probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of allergies by promoting the production of regulatory T-cells. These cells help to control the immune system and prevent it from overreacting to harmless substances.
7. Increased production of vitamins
Probiotics help to break down food in the gut, which leads to the production of vitamins such as vitamin B12 and vitamin K. These vitamins are important for a healthy immune system as they help to support the production of red blood cells and the growth and development of immune cells.
In conclusion, probiotics have a wide range of benefits for the immune system. They help to reduce the risk of infections, improve gut health, reduce inflammation, enhance vaccine response, improve mental health, reduce the risk of allergies, and increase the production of vitamins. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet or taking probiotic supplements can help to boost your immune system and promote overall health.
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