Everything You Need to Know About Probiotics and Immune System
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are essential for the proper functioning of our gut. Most often found in fermented foods and supplements, probiotics are known to support the digestive system, but their health benefits go beyond gut health. Several studies have found that probiotics can help improve immune function, boosting the body’s natural defenses against infections and harmful bacteria.
How Do Probiotics Boost Immune Function?
Probiotics work by interacting with the gut’s microbiome, which is made up of trillions of microorganisms that reside in the digestive tract. These microorganisms play a vital role in immune function as they communicate with the body’s immune system.
Probiotics help to restore balance in the gut microbiome by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This increase in beneficial bacteria can help suppress the growth of harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of infections and illnesses.
Research has shown that specific strains of probiotics can stimulate the production of cytokines, which are proteins that act as messengers in the immune system. Cytokines help to regulate the immune response, enhancing the body’s natural defense against infections.
Additionally, probiotics have been found to improve gut barrier function. When the gut lining is functioning correctly, it prevents harmful substances such as bacteria and toxins from entering the bloodstream. This immune system support helps reduce systemic inflammation, a condition that has been linked to several chronic diseases such as autoimmune disorders, heart diseases, and cancer.
Probiotics and Immune System Boosting Benefits
The immune-boosting benefits of probiotics have been studied extensively over the years, and several studies have demonstrated their usefulness in promoting immune function and preventing infections.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that consuming a probiotic supplement containing the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains helped reduce the incidence of upper respiratory infections in children during the flu season. The study participants who received the probiotics had fewer episodes of the flu and common cold, and the duration of their illness was significantly shorter.
Another study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that consuming probiotics reduced the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, a common side effect of antibiotic use. The study further demonstrated that probiotics were particularly effective in preventing diarrhea in children who were undergoing antibiotic treatment.
Other studies have also found that probiotics can help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, improve oral health, and enhance skin health by reducing the appearance of acne and other skin conditions.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics are not the only essential component of gut health. Prebiotics are plant-based fibers that have been found to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Prebiotics work by providing the necessary nutrients that probiotics need to thrive, ensuring that they can carry out their functions correctly.
The best sources of prebiotics include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Including prebiotic-rich foods in your diet can help support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, enhancing the benefits of probiotics.
Conclusion
Consuming probiotics can be an excellent way to support the immune system and promote gut health. By restoring balance in the gut microbiome, probiotics can help enhance immune function, reducing the risk of infections and illnesses. To enjoy the full benefits of probiotics, it is essential to consume them regularly and include prebiotic-rich foods in your diet. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best probiotic supplement or fermented food for your needs.
