Probiotics are live microorganisms that are good for your health when consumed in adequate amounts. These beneficial microorganisms help to maintain or restore balance of intestinal flora. Probiotics are live microorganisms which are similar to good bacteria naturally found in the human gut.
Probiotics are generally referred as “good” or “friendly” bacteria because they support intestinal microbial balance, which is critical for optimal nutrient absorption, immunity and digestive health. Major groups of probiotics include lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, streptococcus and saccharomyces boulardii.
Sources of Probiotics
Some of the common natural sources of probiotics include fermented dairy products such as yogurt, kefir and some cheeses. Non-dairy sources include naturally fermented vegetables like kimchi, sauerkraut and tempeh. Probiotic supplements are also available in capsule, powder or liquid form. Products containing live active cultures are more likely to provide health benefits associated with probiotics.
Benefits of Probiotics
Promotes Digestive Health
Probiotics help maintain a healthy microbial balance in intestines which is essential for proper digestion. They inhibit the growth and activity of harmful microbes while promoting the growth of beneficial microbes. This results in better digestion, absorption of nutrients and bowel regularity. Probiotics are beneficial in conditions like diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and inflammatory bowel disease.
Supports Immune Function
Having a healthy gut and balanced intestinal microflora is key to immune defense. Probiotics help strengthen the gut barrier function and modulate immune response. Studies show probiotic supplementation can reduce duration and severity of common infections like cold and flu by reinforcing mucosal immunity.
Reduces Risk of Allergies
Consumption of certain probiotic strains during pregnancy and childhood has shown promise in allergy prevention. Probiotics make intestinal environment unfavorable for allergens to pass through gut and stimulate the body’s immune response. This reduces the risk of allergic reactions to food and other allergens.
Aids Weight Management
Probiotics aid weight control by several mechanisms like improving gut hormone response, promoting feelings of fullness, influencing fat storage and energy regulation. Studies report an association between consumption of probiotic dairy products and reduced body weight and body fat. Probiotics may be a useful adjuvant in weight management programs.
Types of Beneficial Probiotics
While there are hundreds of identified probiotic strains, some of the most common and widely researched probiotics include:
Lactobacillus acidophilus – Naturally found in intestine and vagina. Used to balance gut bacteria, treat and prevent diarrhea, IBS and yeast infections.
Lactobacillus casei – Associate with immune function, IBS relief, cholesterol reduction and anti-carcinogenic effects.
Bifidobacterium bifidum – Represent most of gut bacteria in breastfed infants. Benefits digestion and gut health.
Bifidobacterium longum – Linked to immune modulation, IBS relief, and lowering risk of diarrhea, respiratory infections and antibiotic associated diarrhea.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG – Popularly known as GG, benefits digestive and upper respiratory health and severity of rotavirus diarrhea.
Lactobacillus plantarum – Commonly used in kimchi and sourdough. May support cardiovascular health, reduce cholesterol and diabetes risk, boost immunity.
Dosage and Safety of Probiotic Supplements
While fermented foods provide probiotics, supplements allow targeting specific strains in higher numbers. Experts recommend at least 1 billion to 10 billion CFUs per day for probiotic effectiveness. Higher doses may be needed in case of gastrointestinal disorders. Products should have CFU counts guaranteed through end of shelf life.
Probiotic supplementation is generally safe for healthy individuals. Temporary side effects like bloating, gas and changes in bowel habits are usually mild and subside within few days. However, people with severely compromised immunity should consult doctor before use. Proper storage as per package guidance ensures probiotic viability.
Regular consumption of probiotic containing fermented and non-fermented foods along with probiotic supplements can inherently support balanced gut microbiota, optimal digestion and immune defense. Probiotics are a promising nutritional strategy for prevention and management of gut, immune and metabolic disorders. However, one should choose probiotic products wisely under medical guidance for maximum health benefits.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
