Beyond the Gut: How Probiotics Can Improve Skin, Immune System, and More

Probiotics are live microorganisms or “good” bacteria found in certain foods and supplements that offer numerous health benefits beyond just improving your gut health. When consumed, probiotics interact with the microbes already present in our bodies to help balance our overall microbiome, or the collection of microorganisms that call our bodies home. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of probiotics and how they can improve not just your gut health but your entire body.

Probiotics for Skin Health

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it plays a crucial role in protecting your body against external elements such as bacteria, viruses, and pollutants. Research has shown that consuming probiotics can help to improve skin health and prevent conditions such as acne, rosacea, and eczema.

One study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that consuming Lactobacillus-fermented dairy drink for 12 weeks improved acne in a group of participants. Another study showed that taking a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus helped to improve symptoms of atopic dermatitis, a type of eczema that causes red, itchy skin.

Probiotics for Immune Support

Probiotics can also help to boost your immune system. When your gut is healthy and in balance, it helps to strengthen your overall immune response. This is because about 70% of your immune system is located in your gut.

One study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that athletes who took a probiotic supplement for 12 weeks had a lower incidence of upper respiratory tract infections and a reduced duration of symptoms. Another study showed that consuming a combination of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics improved immune function in healthy elderly adults.

Probiotics for Mental Health

Research has also shown that consuming probiotics can improve mental health. The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain, and there is increasing evidence to suggest that the microbes in our gut can influence our mental health.

One study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that taking a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium for 8 weeks improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Another study showed that consuming a combination of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics improved cognitive function in healthy young adults.

Probiotics for Heart Health

Research has also shown that consuming probiotics can improve heart health. One study published in the journal Hypertension found that consuming a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus reuteri for 9 weeks reduced systolic blood pressure by 3.3 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 2.4 mmHg in participants with high blood pressure.

Another study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine found that consuming a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus plantarum for 12 weeks improved cholesterol levels in participants with hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol.

Conclusion

Probiotics offer numerous health benefits beyond just improving gut health. From improving skin health to boosting immune support, promoting mental health, and improving heart health, probiotics can play a crucial role in enhancing overall health and well-being. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits, it’s clear that incorporating probiotics into your diet can be an excellent way to support your overall health.