The Remarkable Benefits of Probiotics on Digestive Disorders
Probiotics are living microorganisms that are found in foods like yogurt, fermented vegetables, and dietary supplements. These microorganisms help to balance the bacteria in the gut and keep your digestive system healthy.
Probiotics and Digestive Disorders
Studies have shown that probiotics can help to alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. In one study, patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis were given a probiotic supplement for 12 weeks. The patients who took the probiotics experienced a significant reduction in disease activity compared to those who took a placebo.
In another study, patients with IBS were given a probiotic supplement for 4 weeks. The patients who took the probiotics experienced a significant improvement in symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea compared to those who took a placebo.
Probiotics have also been shown to reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, a common side effect of taking antibiotics. When you take antibiotics, the medication can kill off both good and bad bacteria in your gut, which can disrupt the balance and lead to diarrhea. Taking a probiotic supplement during or after a course of antibiotics can help to replenish the good bacteria and prevent diarrhea.
How Probiotics Work
Probiotics work by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in your gut. The human gut is home to over 100 trillion bacteria, both good and bad. When the balance of bacteria is disrupted, it can lead to digestive disorders and other health problems.
Probiotics help to restore the balance of bacteria by promoting the growth of good bacteria and inhibiting the growth of bad bacteria. They can also help to strengthen the intestinal barrier, which can prevent harmful substances from entering the bloodstream and causing inflammation.
Types of Probiotics
There are many different types of probiotics, but two of the most common are lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.
- Lactobacillus: This type of probiotic is found in yogurt and other fermented foods. It can help to prevent and treat diarrhea, as well as reduce symptoms of lactose intolerance.
- Bifidobacterium: This type of probiotic is found in some dairy products and dietary supplements. It can help to prevent and treat diarrhea, as well as improve digestive function in older adults.
Probiotic Supplements
While probiotics can be found in foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, some people may find it difficult to consume enough probiotics through their diet alone. In these cases, a probiotic supplement may be helpful.
Probiotic supplements come in many forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders. When choosing a probiotic supplement, it is important to look for one that contains strains of bacteria that have been shown to be effective in clinical studies. It is also important to store the supplement properly to ensure that the bacteria remain alive and active.
Conclusion
Probiotics are a valuable tool in maintaining a healthy digestive system. They can help to prevent and treat digestive disorders like IBS and ulcerative colitis, as well as reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. By restoring the balance of bacteria in the gut, probiotics can help to improve digestive function and overall health.
