Nourish
What You Need to Know About Probiotics
Probiotics are one of the biggest buzzwords in the health industry right now. Most of us have a vague sense that they’re good for us, but why? And what should we look for when we buy them? Since most of us haven’t studied microbiology since college (if at all!), we’re here to clarify the role that these beneficial bacteria play in our immunity and gut health.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are good bacteria that live in the human gut and help our bodies function properly. They help us digest food, absorb nutrients, make hormones, and reduce bad bacteria that can otherwise make us sick.
Studies have found that probiotics can shorten the duration of stomach viruses and diarrhea by up to a third. Probiotics were found to reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections in children, and to decrease the number of kids who needed antibiotics for the infections. They’ve also been found to lower rates of eczema in babies, and they may improve digestive disorders and aid in overall immunity. In short, so serious benefits!
Where do probiotics come from?
We all have naturally occurring probiotics in our intestines, though there are several external factors that can disrupt them (everything from stress and diet to infections and antibiotics). You can increase the amount of probiotics in your body by eating probiotic-rich foods. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, and kombucha are all good sources. You can also take a probiotic supplement to ensure that you’re getting a solid daily dose.
What should I look for in a supplement?
Look for a probiotic that includes at least 30 billion live active cultures and is stored in the refrigerated section of your health-food store. You may need to try a few brands and/or strains of bacteria to find one that works best with your system. If one probiotic makes your digestive system feel worse, stop taking it and try another one. Seeking out the advice of a doctor before choosing a supplement is your best bet—especially since the health claims on probiotic supplements aren’t verified by the FDA.
Can probiotics help my stomachache?
Many experts recommend certain strains to help improve digestive distress, such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and gas. Some strains may be better at helping one issue or another, so again, it’s best to consult with a medical expert for advice.
Bottom line: Probiotics are a key player in our health and wellness, but they are not a one-size-fits-all fix. For medical issues that you think might be helped by probiotics, reach out to your doctor for advice. Or, simply try incorporating more probiotics into your diet as a first (budget-friendly and delicious) step.
Ready to round out your wellness routine? Sign up for our free trial and get 15 days of barre3 Online, totally free.
Probiotics are one of the biggest buzzwords in the health industry right now. Most of us have a vague sense that they’re good for us, but why? And what should we look for when we buy them? Since most of us haven’t studied microbiology since college (if at all!), we’re here to clarify the role that these beneficial bacteria play in our immunity and gut health.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are good bacteria that live in the human gut and help our bodies function properly. They help us digest food, absorb nutrients, make hormones, and reduce bad bacteria that can otherwise make us sick.
Studies have found that probiotics can shorten the duration of stomach viruses and diarrhea by up to a third. Probiotics were found to reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections in children, and to decrease the number of kids who needed antibiotics for the infections. They’ve also been found to lower rates of eczema in babies, and they may improve digestive disorders and aid in overall immunity. In short, so serious benefits!
Where do probiotics come from?
We all have naturally occurring probiotics in our intestines, though there are several external factors that can disrupt them (everything from stress and diet to infections and antibiotics). You can increase the amount of probiotics in your body by eating probiotic-rich foods. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, and kombucha are all good sources. You can also take a probiotic supplement to ensure that you’re getting a solid daily dose.
What should I look for in a supplement?
Look for a probiotic that includes at least 30 billion live active cultures and is stored in the refrigerated section of your health-food store. You may need to try a few brands and/or strains of bacteria to find one that works best with your system. If one probiotic makes your digestive system feel worse, stop taking it and try another one. Seeking out the advice of a doctor before choosing a supplement is your best bet—especially since the health claims on probiotic supplements aren’t verified by the FDA.
Can probiotics help my stomachache?
Many experts recommend certain strains to help improve digestive distress, such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and gas. Some strains may be better at helping one issue or another, so again, it’s best to consult with a medical expert for advice.
Bottom line: Probiotics are a key player in our health and wellness, but they are not a one-size-fits-all fix. For medical issues that you think might be helped by probiotics, reach out to your doctor for advice. Or, simply try incorporating more probiotics into your diet as a first (budget-friendly and delicious) step.
Ready to round out your wellness routine? Sign up for our free trial and get 15 days of barre3 Online, totally free.
