The Forgotten Benefits of Probiotics You Need to Know

Probiotics – the word is almost synonymous with gut health and good digestion nowadays. In fact, it is almost impossible to talk about digestive health without bringing up the importance of probiotics. While these benefits cannot be overstated, there are still several other advantages to taking probiotics, some of which are often forgotten or overlooked.

Improved Immune Response and Wound Healing

Probiotics play a critical role in boosting the immune response. Research has shown that taking specific strains of probiotics can help reduce the incidence of common colds and flu-like symptoms. Why is this so? The gut is home to a majority of the body’s immune cells, and these cells rely heavily on a healthy balance of probiotic bacteria to work optimally. Probiotics have also been shown to help improve wound healing in patients recovering from surgery or injury.

Better Oral Health

Your oral health is not something that is often associated with probiotics. However, research has shown that specific strains of probiotics can help reduce the build-up of plaque and improve overall oral health. Unchecked plaque buildup can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and a host of other oral health problems.

Mood Enhancement and Reduced Anxiety

Recent studies have linked gut health to mental health, suggesting that a healthy gut is essential for overall well-being. Probiotics have been shown to have a positive impact on mood and reduce anxiety levels. Researchers believe this is because the gut and brain maintain a continuous line of communication known as the gut-brain axis. Thus, by promoting a healthy gut microbiome, probiotics can help improve mental health.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol levels are a significant risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Studies have found that taking probiotics can help reduce total cholesterol levels, as well as LDL or bad cholesterol. This is because specific probiotic strains have been shown to break down bile acids in the gut, reducing the level of circulating cholesterol in the blood.

Improved Skin Health

Finally, probiotics may also provide several benefits to the skin. Research has found that applying probiotics topically to the skin can help reduce inflammation, eczema, and acne. Similarly, taking probiotics orally can help improve the overall appearance and health of the skin, giving it a more radiant glow.

Conclusion

Probiotics are more than just digestive aids – they provide several benefits to different systems in the body. From boosting the immune response to promoting skin health, probiotics provide a multi-faceted approach to overall wellness. If you are looking to add probiotics to your health regimen, talk to your doctor or dietitian to determine the best probiotic strains and dosages for you.