Probiotics and Immune System: Can They Help Fight Infections and Diseases?
Probiotics have gained popularity over the years due to their numerous health benefits. One of the most talked about benefits of probiotics is their effect on the immune system. In this blog, we will discuss how probiotics can help fight infections and diseases, the different strains of probiotics that best support the immune system, and the best sources of probiotics.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to the body, especially the digestive system. They help keep the gut healthy by maintaining the balance between good and bad bacteria. This balance is essential for a healthy immune system.
How do Probiotics affect the Immune System?
The human immune system defends against harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause infections and diseases. Probiotics help support the immune system by stimulating the production of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These beneficial bacteria help the immune system identify and fight harmful bacteria and viruses.
Studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce the duration and severity of infections such as the common cold and flu. They can also help prevent respiratory infections and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
Strains of Probiotics that Support the Immune System
Not all strains of probiotics have the same effect on the immune system. The following are the strains of probiotics that best support the immune system:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus – This strain of probiotic is found in the small intestine and helps support the immune system by producing lactic acid. Lactic acid helps regulate the pH balance of the gut, making it difficult for harmful bacteria to survive.
- Bifidobacterium bifidum – This strain of probiotic is found in the large intestine and helps support the immune system by enhancing the production of white blood cells. White blood cells are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus – This strain of probiotic helps support the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that help defend against harmful bacteria and viruses.
Sources of Probiotics
There are many sources of probiotics, including:
- Yogurt – Yogurt is one of the most common sources of probiotics. Look for yogurt that contains live cultures.
- Kefir – Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contains a variety of beneficial bacteria and yeasts.
- Sauerkraut – Sauerkraut is made from fermented cabbage and contains a variety of beneficial bacteria.
- Kombucha – Kombucha is a fermented tea that contains beneficial bacteria and yeasts.
- Kimchi – Kimchi is a Korean dish made from fermented vegetables and contains a variety of beneficial bacteria.
Conclusion
Probiotics can help support the immune system by maintaining the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. The strains of probiotics that best support the immune system are Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. There are many sources of probiotics, including yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, and kimchi. Including probiotics in your diet can be an effective way to fight infections and diseases.
