How Probiotics Can Boost Your Immune System and Fight Off Infections
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. There are many different types of probiotics, but they all work to help keep your gut healthy and functioning optimally.
The Link Between Probiotics and Your Immune System
Beyond their digestive system benefits, many studies have shown that probiotics can also boost your immune system and help fight off infections. The reason for this is that around 70% of your immune system is actually located in your gut. By promoting gut health, probiotics can help ensure that your immune system is functioning properly and equipped to fight off any harmful bacteria or viruses that may come your way.
When you consume probiotics, they help balance out the bacteria in your gut microbiome, which can become imbalanced due to various factors such as poor diet, stress, or taking antibiotics. When your gut microbiome is imbalanced, harmful bacteria can take over, leading to inflammation and a weakened immune system. Probiotics work to keep this balance in check, ensuring that harmful bacteria don’t run rampant, and that your immune system can function at its best.
The Specific Ways Probiotics Can Boost Your Immune System
Reduce the Risk of Respiratory Infections
Studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce the risk of respiratory infections such as the common cold or flu. One study found that taking a specific strain of probiotics for three months reduced the incidence of the common cold by 27%. This is likely due to the fact that probiotics can help boost the production of antibodies, which are key in fighting off infections.
Reduce the Severity of GI Infections
Probiotics can also be helpful in reducing the severity of gastrointestinal (GI) infections such as diarrhea. One study found that taking a specific strain of probiotics reduced the duration of diarrhea in children by nearly a day and a half. This is significant because GI infections can weaken the immune system and lead to dehydration.
Boost the Effectiveness of Vaccines
Probiotics have also been shown to boost the effectiveness of vaccines. One study found that taking a specific strain of probiotics alongside the flu vaccine led to a stronger immune response than the vaccine alone. This is because probiotics can help activate and strengthen immune cells.
How to Ensure You’re Getting Enough Probiotics
One of the best ways to ensure that you’re getting enough probiotics is to consume fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha. These foods contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria that can help promote gut health. You can also take probiotic supplements, which come in various forms such as capsules, powders, and liquids. When choosing a probiotic supplement, look for one that contains live cultures of beneficial bacteria and has been tested for purity and potency.
Conclusion
Probiotics are essential for maintaining good gut health, and they can also aid in boosting your immune system and fighting off infections. By consuming probiotic-rich foods and supplements, you can ensure that your gut microbiome remains balanced, and your immune system is functioning at its best.
