The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Probiotics:
A Closer Look at the Benefits and Strains
Probiotics fall under the category of good bacteria that offer several health benefits when consumed. Unlike bad bacteria that cause many harmful diseases, probiotics protect your gut from unwanted infections and diseases. Probiotics can be consumed through either food or supplements. In this article, we will take a closer look at the benefits and strains of probiotics.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are microorganisms that exist in our bodies naturally. They are found in foods such as yoghurt, kefir, pickles, kimchi, and sauerkraut. These beneficial bacteria keep the gut healthy by combating the growth of bad bacteria that can cause diseases. However, factors like antibiotics, poor diet, and stress can deplete the good bacteria in the body. This can lead to health problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and allergies.
The Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics offer numerous benefits to the body. Here are some of the advantages of consuming probiotics:
Improved Digestion
Probiotics aid digestion by breaking down food and creating lactic acid in the stomach. This acid helps maintain the pH level of the stomach and prevents harmful bacteria from growing. Probiotics also help prevent constipation, diarrhea, and bloating.
Boosting the Immune System
Probiotics play a critical role in boosting the immune system by maintaining proper gut health. A healthy gut leads to a strong immune system, which keeps diseases at bay. Probiotics served in food and supplements also strengthen the body’s immune response to allergic reactions and infections.
Reducing the Risk of Colorectal Cancer
Studies have shown that consuming probiotics can lower the risk of contracting colorectal cancer. These bacteria help to lower inflammation in the colon while improving the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food.
Reducing Gastrointestinal Infections
Probiotics also help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the stomach that cause gastrointestinal infections. Probiotic supplements are particularly useful when antibiotics are taken to balance gut bacteria following an infection.
Types of Probiotic Strains
Probiotics can also be classified into different strains based on their benefits to the body. Here are some common strains of probiotics and their benefits:
Lactobacillus
One of the most common strains of probiotics is lactobacillus. It is found natively in the mouth, gut, and reproductive system. It helps convert lactose into lactic acid and fights infections in the vaginal area of women.
Bifidobacterium
Bifidobacterium is commonly found in the gut and is known to help reduce bloating and digestive issues. This reasonable strain of bacteria is essential for gut health and is used as a treatment for constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Streptococcus
Streptococcus thermophilus is the most common type of probiotic strain, found in yoghurt and cheese. It aids digestion and supports the immune system.
Conclusion
If you want to keep your gut healthy and maintain good overall health, it’s essential to consume probiotics. Probiotics come in different forms, including supplements and food sources. The best option is to consume probiotics through a balanced diet consisting of yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and select vegetables.
Remember, for probiotics to be effective, they need to be taken regularly. It’s important to note that while probiotics offer several benefits to the body, they shouldn’t be used as a replacement for medical treatment.
