The Surprising Link Between Probiotics and Cardiovascular Health
Probiotics are often associated with digestive health, but recent studies have also shown a link between probiotics and cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of death worldwide, so this finding is particularly important. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what probiotics are, how they impact our cardiovascular system, and what you can do to incorporate them into your diet.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be found in certain foods or supplements. They are often referred to as “good bacteria” because they help keep our digestive system healthy. Some of the most common probiotics include bifidobacterium and lactobacillus, which can be found in yogurts, kefir, and other fermented foods. Probiotics can also be found in supplement form.
The Connection Between Probiotics and Cardiovascular Health
Recent studies have found that certain strains of probiotics may have a positive impact on our cardiovascular health. One study published in the journal Hypertension found that a particular strain of lactobacillus reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension. Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that daily consumption of probiotics for 6 weeks reduced LDL cholesterol levels in healthy adults.
There are a few theories behind why probiotics may be good for our cardiovascular health. For one, probiotics have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, so anything that can reduce inflammation is considered beneficial. Probiotics may also have an impact on the gut microbiome, which can influence our overall health.
How to Incorporate Probiotics into Your Diet
If you’re interested in incorporating more probiotics into your diet, there are a few things you can do. One option is to eat more fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. These foods can be found at most grocery stores and can be easily added to your diet. You can also look for probiotic supplements at your local health food store, although it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement.
Other Ways to Promote Cardiovascular Health
While probiotics may be helpful for our cardiovascular health, they are just one piece of the puzzle. There are many other things we can do to promote cardiovascular health, including:
- Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
- Exercising regularly
- Keeping our blood pressure in check
- Not smoking or using tobacco products
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Conclusion
Probiotics have historically been associated with digestive health, but recent studies have shown that they may also have a positive impact on cardiovascular health. While more research is needed to fully understand the connection between probiotics and cardiovascular health, there is certainly enough evidence to suggest that incorporating more probiotics into your diet may have some benefit. As always, it’s important to talk to your doctor before making any major changes to your diet or starting a new supplement.
