From Athletes to Kids – Who Should Add Probiotics to Their Daily Routine?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to our health when consumed in adequate amounts, primarily by improving our gut health. They are found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, as well as in supplements.

As more research is conducted, scientists are beginning to discover the benefits of probiotics on many aspects of our health, from our immune system to our mental health. With all the buzz around probiotics, it can be challenging to determine if everyone should add them to their daily routine, or if they are more appropriate for certain populations. Here are some insights.

Athletes

Probiotic supplementation has been shown to have benefits for athletes’ immune systems. This is essential because athletes are more susceptible to infections due to increased training loads and stress on the body.

One study found that 14 weeks of probiotic supplementation reduced the number of upper respiratory tract infections in endurance athletes by 66%. Another study found that a month of probiotic supplementation reduced the incidence of gastrointestinal infections in athletes preparing for a marathon by 30%.

Therefore, adding probiotics to the daily routine of athletes can be a good idea.

Kids

The gut microbiome of children is still developing, making it important to ensure they have the right balance of microorganisms. This has effects on their digestive and immune health and their brain development. Studies show that probiotic supplementation can help children with diarrhea, constipation, and eczema, and that some types of probiotics can improve academic performance and decrease anxiety. Additionally, some children may benefit from taking probiotics for a limited time after being on antibiotics.

However, care should be taken when giving probiotics to children, and you should always consult your pediatrician before giving probiotics to your child.

Older Adults

As we age, our gut health can deteriorate, leading to digestive disorders, weakened immune systems, and cognitive decline. Probiotics can help maintain the balance of gut microorganisms and can have benefits such as reducing the risk of Clostridium difficile infections after antibiotic use or improving stool frequency.

As a result, older adults can benefit from taking probiotics as part of their daily routine.

In Conclusion

While probiotics have been shown to have many benefits, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone’s gut microbiome is different, and an individual’s response to probiotics will depend on their unique gut microbiota makeup and health status. Therefore, it is essential to consult your doctor before taking or incorporating probiotics into your daily routine, particularly if you are pregnant, have an immune disorder, or are taking medications that may interact with probiotics.

Additionally, it is important to consume probiotics in adequate amounts for them to be beneficial. Make sure to follow the instructions on your supplement or eat fermented foods regularly.