10 Health Benefits of Probiotics

Poor diet, medication, illness, and other health ailments can lead to an imbalance in your stomach. However, the live microorganisms found in the ‘good' bacteria of probiotics maintain the natural balance of your gut. If you suffer from diarrhea, you can appropriately adjust the negative balance of your gut bacteria with probiotics. A review of 35 studies determined that strains of probiotics can reduce the likelihood and duration of diarrhea in both children and adults. The cases included both infectious and travelers' diarrhea as well as people with symptoms of diarrhea due to antibiotics. The most common strains that help treat the intestinal problem is Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus casei.

Did you know that consuming probiotics can help reduce symptoms of mental health disorders? In one study, 15 people who took supplements with strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains for a couple of months improved their anxiety, depression, memory, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A separate review followed 70 depressed patients who consumed 100 grams of probiotic yogurt every day or took a daily supplement capsule. The six-week study revealed that 40 people benefited during the study. Just in the case of digestive health, these specific strains of probiotics might help with mental health, too.

If you have a problem with your cholesterol and blood pressure, probiotics might change your levels. Lactic acid-producing bacteria can reduce ‘bad' LDL cholesterol because it breaks down bile, a natural fluid in your stomach. Even though bile is mostly made of cholesterol, it helps with digestion. Several different studies compared to each other all revealed a reduction in total cholesterol and ‘bad' LDL cholesterol after eating probiotic yogurt for two months. In the reviews that had conflicting results, there was no change in total or bad cholesterol levels, but the ‘good' HDL cholesterol increased. All of the studies included consuming at least 10 million colony-forming units (CFU) daily for more than eight weeks.

It is common for both infants and children to develop red, itchy skin known as eczema. Although more studies need to be conducted, several reviews show that consuming probiotics can treat the irritating condition. One study showed that symptoms of severe eczema improved for babies who drank probiotic-supplemented milk rather than formula without probiotics. Another study followed pregnant women who took probiotic; it revealed that their children had a significantly lower chance of getting the skin ailment within the first two years of life. You can discuss healthy options with your gynecologist, lactation coach, and other medical professionals.

People develop allergies both as children and adults for different reasons. From pollen and hay to shellfish and peanuts, the range in severity varies depending on the person. If you have a sensitivity to milk or cheese, then you might be lactose intolerant. When triggered by dairy, you can reduce the inflammatory response thanks to probiotics. However, more evidence needs to be discovered to prove this remedy. Discuss the benefits of probiotic foods and supplements with your family doctor.

Pathogens in your mouth are infection-producing microbes. Luckily, probiotics have ‘good' bacteria that boost your immune system. The strains make your mouth healthy enough so that harmful bacteria find it difficult to live and thrive. Studies have revealed that probiotics also help reduce inflammation. If you are in an advanced stage of gum disease, eating significant amounts of probiotics can stimulate bone formation and help repair any deteriorated teeth. It is important to talk to your dentist about taking probiotics to assist with your oral health.

If it help your digestive health in general, then particular strains can improve specific disorders, too. Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains can ease the symptoms of mild ulcerative colitis. Another strain that can help is probiotic with E. coli Nissle. Other studies revealed probiotics significantly lowered the risk of severe necrotizing enterocolitis in premature babies. There was some connection between consuming probiotics and reducing the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); unfortunately, the strains need to be studied in more detail to determine its effect on symptoms of Chron's disease.

Just as with other health benefits of probiotics, it really depends on the strains you are consuming. For example, multiple studies have linked Lactobacillus rhamnosus to weight loss in women who used it for more than six months compared to those who didn't. The strain Lactobacillus gasseri is another seemingly effective probiotic strain when it comes to reducing belly fat. However, steer clear of ingesting Lactobacillus acidophilus strains because these types of probiotics might cause weight gain. Keep in mind that consuming probiotics, in general, can leave you feeling fuller for longer; in turn, you consume fewer calories through the day and store less fat.

Probiotics may be linked to the production of antibodies. More specifically, they help promote immune cells including T lymphocytes, IgA-producing cells, and other natural body defense. When your immune system is healthy, you should not get sick as much. A study revealed that the Lactobacillus GG strain helped reduce the likelihood and duration of respiratory infections in children.

Women can contribute to maintaining their urogenital health thanks to probiotics. Just like balancing your gut bacteria, they assist with intestinal and vaginal balances. Lactobacilli strains are very acidic, which destroys harmful microorganisms. Even though antibiotics, birth control methods, and spermicides can all affect a vagina's PH balance, probiotics restore microflora. The proper balance of microflora can help combat common female problems such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Probiotics with Lactobacillus crispatus strains might help women with lowering the chance of contracting urinary tract infections (UTIs).