Probiotics: are they just another health fad? You might believe probiotics are merely a fad because they’re sold in almost every store that sells packaged food (even our local farmers’ market sells probiotic juice shots). After all, they’re all over the place. Probiotics are being introduced to food and cosmetics goods left and right, from bottled drinks to granola bars to newborn formula. Warning: The wellness business may be onto something. But I’m here to tell you that it’s far more than a fad. Probiotics replace your body’s beneficial bacteria, which is an aspect of health that we’ll constantly require. The main concern is how to select a probiotic. But first, let’s go through the fundamentals. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
What Are Probiotics and How Do They Work?
Probiotics are living organisms that are microscopic in size. Certain bacteria and yeasts, which are commonly found in fermented foods or dietary supplements, are among them. Probiotics are “live bacteria that, when supplied in suitable proportions, impart a health benefit on the host,” according to the ISAPP (International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics). These bacteria-dominated microorganisms are found naturally in fermented foods, but they can also be added to other foods and purchased as nutritional supplements. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
Bacteria has a terrible reputation, but keep in mind that there are two types of bacteria in (and on) your body: beneficial bacteria and bad bacteria. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that keep your body healthy and functioning properly. This beneficial bacteria aids you in a variety of ways, including fighting off harmful bacteria when you have too much. Probiotics are, in essence, a piece of a broader picture involving bacteria and your body: your microbiome. Consider a microbiome as a diverse collection of organisms that work together to keep your body healthy, such as prebiotics and probiotics. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: What’s the Difference?
Prebiotics and probiotics are sometimes mistaken. Let’s distinguish between the two, despite the fact that they’re both vital to human health. They do, after all, play diverse roles. Probiotics are helpful bacteria that can be found in specific meals or supplements. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are fibers that feed beneficial microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract. These substances are made up of carbs that humans can’t digest (mainly fiber). This fiber is consumed by the good bacteria in your gut. Complex carbohydrates (such as inulin and other fructooligosaccharides) are used as metabolic fuel by microbes in the gastrointestinal system. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
Although you don’t need to take a prebiotic for probiotics to work, doing so may increase their effectiveness. Prebiotics, in essence, may support a healthy gut, resulting in improved digestive health, fewer antibiotic-related health issues, and other advantages. Despite the fact that there is less study on prebiotics than on probiotics, certain studies show that they are effective. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
The Beneficial Effects of a Diverse Microbiome
In any case, consuming a good combination of probiotics and prebiotics can help you maintain a healthy gut microbiome. The type of bacteria prevalent in your digestive tract can be influenced by a variety of variables, including the foods you eat. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
A diversified microbiome is generally regarded as beneficial. This is due to the fact that the more bacteria species you have, the more health benefits they may be able to provide. Several studies have found that older persons have a more varied gut flora than younger people. The gut microbiota of long-living Chinese, Japanese, and Italian persons was diversified and balanced in all cohorts. Disturbed gut microbiotas with dysbiosis, on the other hand, have been identified in the elderly who have a variety of comorbidities. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
How to Improve the Microbiome in Your Gut
Let’s look at some basic strategies to increase your gut microbiome, given that we all want to live long, healthy lives.
Consume a varied diet that is high in whole foods and antioxidants. A varied diet can result in a more diversified microbiome, which is good for your health. Cook the rainbow if you’re in doubt.
Make the Mediterranean diet a priority. There are many reasons to eat like the Mediterraneans, but the emphasis on vegetables, fruits, beans, and legumes is the most important. These meals are high in fiber and stimulate the growth of good bacteria in the stomach. It has been proven that eating a variety of fresh, healthy foods, primarily from plant sources, improves intestinal health. probioticseverything.comflora q probiotic
Fermented foods are the way to go. Plain yogurt, kimchi, and tempeh are examples of fermented foods that can help the microbiota. They improve its performance and decrease the number of disease-causing germs in the intestines.
Prebiotics should be added. Prebiotics are crucial, as previously stated. Prebiotics are found in many fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but they can also be found on their own. Resistant starch (such as that found in an unripe banana) can also act as a prebiotic. If an unripe banana doesn’t seem appealing, prebiotics can also be found in cooked and cooled potatoes and rice. Some of the digestible starches become resistant starches as they cool. probioticseverything.com
Increase your probiotic consumption. One of the most effective methods? Taking a probiotic supplement is a good idea.