Being healthy is not only about exercising or having a proper diet; it is also about taking care of your gut. The whole concept of a balanced diet is centered on your gut; a healthy gut has been linked to overall health and mental wellness.
A growing body of research has shown that probiotics can have a significant impact on the gut, leading to improved physical health, mental functioning, and emotional wellbeing.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are added to supplement the natural bacteria found in the gut. These microorganisms are essential for various body functions, such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system regulation.
When the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut is disrupted, it can lead to various health issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, constipation, and inflammation.
Gut-Brain Axis
Research has also shown that the gut and brain communicate through what is known as the gut-brain axis. The gut microbiota affects the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and dopamine, the neurotransmitters that regulate mood of a person.
Probiotics have been found to play a significant role in the gut-brain axis by improving the communication between the gut and brain, leading to better mental health and cognitive functioning.
Probiotics and Mental Health
One of the fascinating things about probiotics is that they can promote mood enhancement by modulating neurotransmitters directly or indirectly.
Studies have shown that probiotics can decrease the severity of symptoms of depression, anxiety, autism, and stress. Researchers believe that this may be due to the fact that probiotics can increase the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which regulates mood and behavior in a person.
In another study, probiotic consumption was found to improve cognitive processing in adults with depression. Study participants who consumed probiotics showed a significant reduction in cognitive reactivity to depression.
Probiotics and Immune System
Probiotics play an essential role in regulating the immune system. Studies have found that the gut microbiota has a direct impact on immune functioning.
Research has shown that probiotics can improve immune system functioning by increasing the number of immune cells and stimulating their activity. This leads to better protection against infections and diseases.
Studies have also found that probiotics can prevent or reduce the severity of respiratory tract infections and upper respiratory tract infections.
Probiotics and Digestive Health
Probiotics are well-known for their digestive health benefits. They can improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and the performance of the digestive system.
Research has shown that probiotics can prevent or reduce the severity of diarrhea caused by various infections, antibiotic use, and traveler’s diarrhea.
Probiotics have also been found to be effective in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other digestive related conditions.
Final Thoughts
Probiotics are crucial for maintaining a healthy gut, that has a positive effect on physical health, mental health, and overall wellbeing. They can play a significant role in supporting our immune systems, maintaining the balance of bacteria in our gut, and promoting mental wellness.
If you’re looking to take probiotics and you have any concerns or underlying health conditions, it’s important to consult with a healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplement regime.
Remember, it’s not just about what you eat, but it’s also about taking care of your gut microbiota through a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.
