From Common Cold to Cancer: How Probiotics Can Benefit Your Health
Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in the right amount. They are mainly found in some foods and supplements. The most common types of probiotics are bacteria, and some yeasts also act as probiotics.
Common Cold and Flu
Probiotics play a crucial role in preventing and fighting cold and flu. They help keep the immune system strong and reduce the severity and duration of illnesses. According to a study, people who consumed probiotics for three months had 12% fewer chances of getting a respiratory infection compared to those who didn’t take probiotics.
Probiotics help in stimulating the production of antibodies and white blood cells that fight viruses and bacteria. They also prevent bad bacteria from multiplying and colonizing in the gut, reducing their ability to invade the body and cause infections.
Gastrointestinal Health
Probiotics promote a healthy digestive system and reduce the incidence and severity of various gastrointestinal disorders. They help in maintaining a balance between the good and bad bacteria in the gut, which is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Probiotics can help in treating various gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea caused by antibiotics, and even constipation. They can also reduce the risk of colon cancer by suppressing the growth of cancer cells in the colon.
Weight Management
Probiotics can play an essential role in maintaining a healthy weight. Certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus gasseri, have been found to reduce visceral fat (fat stored in the abdomen) and overall body weight. Probiotics also help in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation, which are vital factors in maintaining a healthy weight.
Mental Health
Probiotics have been found to play a crucial role in maintaining mental health. Studies have shown that probiotics can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress levels. They can also improve cognitive function and memory by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain.
Allergies and Asthma
Probiotics can help in reducing the incidence and severity of allergies and asthma. They help in reducing inflammation and stimulating the immune system, which can prevent allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
According to a study, children who were given probiotics in the first six months of life had a 30% lower risk of developing eczema, a common allergic skin condition. Probiotics can also reduce the severity of seasonal allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing.
Heart Health
Probiotics have been found to be beneficial in maintaining heart health. They help in lowering high blood pressure, reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, and reducing inflammation that can damage the heart and blood vessels.
According to a study, women who consumed probiotics had a 44% lower risk of developing high blood pressure compared to those who did not consume probiotics. Probiotics can also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart attack.
Cancer Prevention
Probiotics have shown promising results in reducing the risk of certain types of cancers. Studies have shown that probiotics can improve the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells and reduce inflammation that can cause cancer.
Probiotics can also increase the production of butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that plays a vital role in preventing colon cancer. Probiotics have also shown to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, such as diarrhea and nausea.
Conclusion
Probiotics have numerous health benefits and can be easily incorporated into the diet through probiotic-rich foods or supplements. It is essential to choose the right probiotic strain and consume it in the right amount to reap its benefits fully. Probiotics are generally considered safe and can be consumed by people of all ages, but it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
