The Benefits of Probiotics
You’ve likely heard all about the powerful little, gut-improving supplements: probiotics. But what are they really and how can they benefit you and your health? While adding live bacteria to your body may seem counterintuitive, science indicates that consuming probiotic supplements or foods rich in probiotics can help balance the natural, healthy bacteria already in your body.
How probiotics work
Your body contains trillions of naturally occurring microorganisms. Healthy microorganisms in the intestines keep your body in balance by combatting pathogens, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption, and promoting immune function. Antibiotics and diseases can often lead to an imbalance of intestinal bacteria, killing both the pathogens and the healthy microorganisms in your body.
When the microorganisms in your body are disrupted or brought out of balance, you can experience a multitude of side effects from diarrhea or constipation to urinary tract infections. While antibiotics are not the only cause of bacterial imbalance, research shows that the answer to getting back in balance may be as simple as consuming probiotics.
Probiotics and health
As we discover more and more information about the benefits of probiotics, healthcare providers are leaning toward live bacteria as a way to treat previously difficult health situations. According to Harvard Health, different strains of probiotics have been known to help with the symptoms and even prevention of several common health issues such as:
- irritable bowel syndrome
- ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
- pylori (the cause of ulcers)
- vaginal infections
- urinary tract infections
- eczema in children
- Diarrhea
Neuroscience research indicates the connection between gut health and the brain, showing that probiotics can even help reduce depression and anxiety. Other studies found that probiotics can be linked to heart health and other cardiovascular functions such as reducing high blood pressure.
How to include probiotics in your diet
While supplements are one of the most popular ways to take probiotics, healthy probiotics also occur naturally in many fermented foods, including:
- Yogurt with active or live cultures (not all yogurt contains probiotics, be sure to read the labels before you buy)
- Kombucha
- Kefir (a fermented milk drink)
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Miso
Not all probiotic strains have the same effects or impact on your health, and it is important to note that researchers are still studying how specific strains or types of probiotics impact different health issues. If you are taking any medications or other supplements, ask your healthcare provider about probiotics and which type will benefit you most. Always consult your physician before adding a new supplement to your regimen to ensure there is no interference with the medication or supplements that you already take.
Get 20% off probiotic products today!
The pharmacists at Wiley’s Pharmacy can help you find the probiotic supplement you are looking for, from probiotics with 10,000 to 100,000 live cultures and doctor recommended brands and strains. And now, for a limited time, take advantage of 20% off all Wiley’s probiotics!
Probiotics are an incredible and natural way to improve many health issues that occur as a byproduct of bacterial imbalance in your body. Stop by or visit Wiley’s Pharmacy online to explore our probiotic supplements and find the product that is right for you.