In today’s world, heart health has become one of the major issues. People are doing everything they can to keep their hearts as healthy as possible. From eating a healthy diet to exercising regularly, they adopt several ways to ensure their heart’s well-being.
But have you ever thought that your heart’s health may depend on something as small as bacteria? Yes, you heard it right. The bacteria that live in your gut can also have an impact on your heart’s health, and that’s where probiotics come into play.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria or yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. Although our body already contains bacteria, probiotics provide additional help to the body in maintaining a balance between good and bad bacteria. It often referred to as the “good” or “friendly” bacteria as it helps in keeping the body healthy.
The Relation Between Probiotics and Heart Health
Several studies support the idea that probiotics can help reduce certain risk factors for heart disease, including cholesterol and blood pressure. The main way probiotics affect heart health is through improving gut health.
The gut microbiome is made up of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the body. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall health, and several studies showed that probiotics can help maintain a healthy microbiome.
One study shows that certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, can help reduce total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the body. Another study found that consuming probiotics can help reduce blood pressure levels, which is another major risk factor for heart disease.
Other Health Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics do not only support gut health and heart health, but they also have many other health benefits. The following are some other health benefits of consuming probiotics:
1. Boost Immune System
Probiotics can help boost your immune system by helping your body produce natural antibodies. It can also help in reducing the duration and severity of respiratory infections, such as the common cold and flu.
2. Improve Digestive System Function
As mentioned before, probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy microbiome. Consuming probiotics can help restore the balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut, which in turn can improve digestive system function.
3. Reduce Allergies and Eczema
Many studies have shown probiotics’ potential in reducing the symptoms of eczema and allergies. While the exact mechanism is yet to be understood, it is believed that probiotics can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is often responsible for allergies and eczema.
4. Mental Health
Probiotics have shown potential in reducing anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. While the exact mechanism is not known, it is believed that the gut-brain connection plays a crucial role in improving mental health.
Probiotic Sources
Probiotics can be found in several food sources, including:
1. Fermented Foods
Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and tempeh are some examples of fermented foods that contain probiotics.
2. Supplements
Probiotic supplements are also available in the market, which can be taken orally. They are available in different forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders.
Conclusion
Probiotics are the “good” bacteria that are essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Several studies show that consuming probiotics can have a positive impact on heart health, including reducing cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Apart from heart health, probiotics have several other health benefits, including boosting the immune system, improving digestive system function, and reducing allergies and eczema’s symptoms.
While probiotics can be found in several food sources, it is important to note that not all probiotics are created equal. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any probiotic supplements.
