How Probiotic Supplements Benefit Health

How Probiotic Supplements Benefit Health

Do you know that bacteria are essential for keeping us healthy? Sounds contradictory, right! Well, in this case, we are talking about the good bacteria. Multiple research studies infer that friendly bacteria like probiotics can be beneficial in fighting off or preventing numerous health conditions. Including dietary probiotics can be an incredible way for maintaining your well-being in the long run, however, it might not be sufficient. So to gain quicker results, you can try using probiotic supplements.

Read on to find out more about probiotic benefits:

  1. Improves gut health
    The overall health of our gut directly impacts our immunity. Medical investigators suspect that numerous chronic diseases are linked with a poor digestive system. Regularly consuming probiotic supplements can balance increase the good gut bacteria, which will help control inflammation. This can prove instrumental in preventing gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel syndrome.
  2. Reduces antibiotic resistance
    According to the WHO (World Health Organization), antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest concerns when it comes to global health. Bad bacteria in the body can become resistant when prescription antibiotics are overused. Using probiotics can help strengthen the gut health by boosting the number of good gut microbes in the intestines. Additionally, following a probiotic diet while taking antibiotics can stop the bad bacteria in the body from becoming resistant.
  3. Boosts immunity
    Chronic inflammation in the intestines can weaken the immunity due to the microbe imbalance in the gut and trigger autoimmune diseases. Including probiotics in one’s daily diet can inhibit such inflammatory effect. It can be extremely useful for seniors or individuals who often suffer from common cold and flu. With consistent use, probiotics can help lower the frequency of viral infections and mitigate their symptoms as well.
  4. Might improve mental health
    The intestinal health substantially impacts the mental well-being too. Some research demonstrates an improvement in the gut-brain connection after using probiotics. However, this evidence is still under scrutiny as research at this point doesn’t involve human subjects. Based on animal studies, investigators conclude that probiotics might relieve symptoms of anxiety. Additionally, it could help lower the episodes of manic depression.
  5. Normalizes blood pressure
    Probiotics can be a great supplementary therapy for patients already undergoing treatment for hypertension. This is because they reduce blood pressure by monitoring insulin resistance, renin levels, and lipid profile, i.e., by stabilizing cholesterol and triglycerides concentrations in the blood. This friendly bacteria is considered to be highly valuable by researchers as it typically exhibits minimal or zero side-effects.
  6. Maintains blood sugar
    Consistent use of probiotics can help maintain the right blood sugar levels, thereby significantly reducing the risk of diabetes. Likewise, for people with diabetes, it can help promote insulin sensitivity and restrain the autoimmune response that triggers symptoms of diabetes.
  7. Protects against yeast infections
    Candida yeast is naturally present in the body, though, its quantity is not overwhelming enough to cause infections. However, at times, this bad bacteria can multiply, causing yeast infections, particularly in the vaginal tract. Using probiotic supplements can help overcome and prevent such infections in the future.

While probiotic supplements are helpful, it is imperative to note that not all of these project a similar effect. This is because different bacterial strains deliver varying results. Furthermore, they are not tested and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) like OTC or prescribed medications. Therefore, it would be wise to consult a GP before introducing these pills in your routine, especially if you are pregnant or getting any medical treatments.