Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer countless health benefits to the human body when consumed in adequate amounts. These benefits include improving digestion, reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and promoting mental health.
However, with the increasing hype surrounding the use of probiotics, there are many misconceptions and myths that people tend to believe. This article aims to debunk these misunderstandings and clarify the facts about probiotics.
Myth #1: Probiotics Are Only Found in Yogurt
Most people tend to think that the only way to get probiotics is by consuming yogurt. While it’s true that yogurt is a significant source of probiotics, there are other foods that contain high levels of these beneficial microorganisms.
Examples of such foods include fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles, as well as fermented drinks such as kefir and kombucha. In addition, you can find probiotics in probiotic-fortified foods like cereals, granola bars, and protein bars, among others.
Myth #2: All Probiotic Strains Are the Same
There are numerous strains of probiotics, each with distinctive health benefits. While some strains can relieve diarrhea and constipation, others may enhance the immune system or prevent urinary tract infections.
Before you consume any probiotic, it’s important to be informed about the specific health benefits of the particular strain. Moreover, you should consult with your doctor or a nutritionist to assist in identifying which probiotic strains are best for your health needs.
Myth #3: You Can Get Enough Probiotics from Supplements Alone
Although you can find several probiotic supplements in the market, they might not be enough to provide adequate amounts of probiotics as the manufacturer claims. Often, probiotic supplements don’t contain enough live bacteria at the expiry date because they lose their effectiveness during transport or storage.
One of the most effective ways to get probiotics into your system is through consuming probiotic-rich foods. Such foods are quite affordable, and you can buy them anywhere. Besides, fermented foods are natural, and they are safe for human consumption.
Myth #4: All Probiotics Survive the Stomach Acid
The human stomach has an acidic environment that helps to break down food, but it can also kill the probiotic bacteria consumed. This makes it necessary to consume probiotics in forms that can survive acidic conditions in the stomach and intestines.
Some probiotic strains are resistant to stomach acid and can make it to the intestines, where they can thrive and provide health benefits to the host. However, not all probiotics can get past the stomach acid barrier, so it’s prudent to consume probiotics in forms that can survive harsh stomach environments.
Myth #5: Probiotics Are Only for Adults
Probiotics are safe and beneficial to children and adolescents as they are to adults. In fact, children have a more sensitive digestive system than adults, and thus, probiotics can help to prevent digestive disturbances and boost their immune system.
Moreover, some probiotic strains can help to relieve symptoms of colic, eczema, and irritable bowel syndrome in children. However, before giving probiotics to children or adolescents, it’s essential to consult with a physician or a pediatrician.
Myth #6: Probiotics Are Only for People with Digestive Issues
While probiotics are known for their benefits in alleviating digestive issues, they offer much more than that. Studies have shown that probiotics can help to boost the immune system, aid in weight loss, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Additionally, probiotics have shown to have a positive effect on mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress caused by several factors. So, even if you don’t have any digestive issues, consuming probiotics can be beneficial to your overall health.
Conclusion
Probiotics offer numerous health benefits to human beings, but unfortunately, myths and misconceptions surround their effectiveness. It’s essential to have accurate knowledge and understanding of probiotics before using them for personal health benefits.
The above myths are just a few out of many that exist, and it’s crucial to debunk them to know the truth. By doing so, individuals can make informed decisions about consuming probiotics and understand how specific strains can be beneficial to them.
