Protecting Against Chronic Diseases With the Help of Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. In recent years, studies have shown that probiotics can also help protect against chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
What Are Chronic Diseases?
Chronic diseases are long-term medical conditions that can often be managed but not cured. They are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and include conditions such as:
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
Chronic diseases are caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits like diet and exercise. While some chronic diseases are unavoidable, many can be prevented through healthy habits and lifestyle changes.
How Probiotics Can Help
Probiotics have a number of health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immune function, and even improving mental health. But recent studies have also shown that probiotics can help protect against chronic diseases.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. Studies have shown that certain strains of probiotics can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. One study found that a daily probiotic supplement improved both fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. It is caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation. Probiotics have been shown to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce inflammation in the body. One study found that a daily probiotic supplement reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 3.56 mm Hg.
Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease with many causes and risk factors. While probiotics cannot prevent cancer, they may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. One study found that a daily probiotic supplement reduced the risk of colorectal cancer in people with a higher risk of the disease.
Choosing the Right Probiotics
Not all probiotics are created equal, and the strains and doses that are effective for one person may not be effective for another. When choosing a probiotic supplement, it’s important to look for:
- Probiotic strains that have been clinically studied
- A minimum of 1 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per dose
- A supplement that is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration
- A supplement that does not contain added sugars or artificial flavors
- A supplement that is from a reputable brand
If you’re not sure which probiotic supplement is right for you, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you choose a supplement that is safe and effective.
In Conclusion
Probiotics have a number of health benefits, including protecting against chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. While more research is needed to fully understand how probiotics work, the evidence is clear that they can have a positive impact on our health. To get the most benefit from probiotics, it’s important to choose the right supplement and take it consistently.
