Probiotics are essential for the optimal functioning of our gut and digestive health. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be consumed in fermented foods and supplements. Not all probiotics are created equal. In fact different strains of probiotics have different effects which ultimately depends on the individual. There are many ways to get natural probiotics into your body by consuming probiotic-rich foods; such as kombucha, yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, miso and any other fermented foods and drinks. When buying fermented products, check the nutritional panel to ensure it contains live bacteria or living cultures.
Probiotics should be raw and unpasteurised in order to benefit from the live microorganisms in fermented products. Studies show that the bacteria in your digestive system is connected to your overall health and the body's disease capability. By consuming probiotics you are promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which has numerous positive effects on our health. These include; weight loss, immune support and fighting diseases and pathogens to name just a few of these health benefits.
The most common benefits of having probiotics are;
- Balanced gut bacteria in your digestive system to maintain a healthy microbiome.
- In the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal issues, which is a side effect of taking antibiotics, as well as in treating anxiety, depression, stress and memory loss.
- To keep your heart healthy certain probiotic strains are used to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
- For the treatment of eczema and certain allergies through supplementation.
- To reduce symptoms of digestive issues, such as inflammatory bowel disorder or diarrhoea.
- To boost the immune system and inhibit the growth of harmful gut bacteria.
- To support weight loss through the absorption of dietary fat in the intestine.
The best way to benefit from probiotics is to buy fermented products that contain active or live probiotic strains. It is also important that you consume probiotics daily and in adequate amounts. Most studies show that to really benefit from probiotics, they should be consumed in dosages of 1 billion to 100 billion live organisms or CFU (colony forming units) per day.
Kombucha, for example contains many billions of strains of lactic acid bacteria that the body needs. Having just a half glass of kombucha a day will give you just the right amount of recommended daily probiotics.
Regular consumption of probiotics in your daily diet will ensure you reap the rewards that these live cultures have on your digestive health and immune system, which affects many working parts of the body and your overall health and well-being.