Edible Probiotics are Known to Have More Than 100 Advantages
Diversity of Benefits:
Edible probiotics in various fermented foods and supplements are renowned for their extensive health benefits. With over 100 documented advantages, these beneficial bacteria are vital to overall health and wellness. Here are some key areas where they make a significant impact:
- Digestive Health: Probiotics are best known for promoting a healthy digestive system. They help balance the gut microbiome, aid digestion, prevent constipation, and alleviate irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
- Immune System Support: Many of the body's immune system is in the gut. Probiotics strengthen the immune system by enhancing the body's natural defences against pathogens.
- Nutrient Absorption: Probiotics can enhance the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from food, contributing to overall nutritional status.
- Mental Health: Emerging research suggests a link between gut health and mental well-being, often called the gut-brain axis. Probiotics may have a positive impact on mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
- Weight Management: Some strains of probiotics have been associated with weight loss and better management of obesity, likely due to their influence on metabolism and appetite regulation.
- Heart Health: Probiotics can positively affect heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Allergy Reduction: Regular intake of certain probiotics has been linked to reducing allergy symptoms, especially in children.
- Skin Health: Probiotics can benefit the skin, helping to manage conditions like eczema, acne, and dry skin.
- Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many diseases. Probiotics can help reduce systemic inflammation.
- Lactose Intolerance: For those with lactose intolerance, certain probiotics can improve lactose digestion, reducing symptoms.
- Antibiotic Recovery: Probiotics can help restore the balance of gut bacteria after antibiotic use.
- Reducing the Risk of Certain Cancers: Evidence suggests probiotics may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
- Women's Health: Probiotics can play a role in maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome, reducing the risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
Conclusion: The myriad advantages of edible probiotics underline their importance in a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating various probiotic-rich foods and supplements can contribute significantly to overall health and well-being.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for guidance related to dietary changes or health concerns.
References:
- Hill, C., Guarner, F., Reid, G., Gibson, G. R., Merenstein, D. J., Pot, B., ... & Sanders, M. E. (2014). The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics consensus statement on the scope and appropriate use of the term probiotic. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 11(8), 506-514.
- Sanders, M. E., Merenstein, D. J., Ouwehand, A., Reid, G., Salminen, S., & Cabana, M. D. (2019). Probiotic use in at-risk populations. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 59(3), 373-383.
- McFarland, L. V. (2015). From yaks to yogurt: the history, development, and current use of probiotics. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 60(suppl_2), S85-S90.
- Plaza-Diaz, J., Ruiz-Ojeda, F. J., Gil-Campos, M., & Gil, A. (2019). Mechanisms of action of probiotics. Advances in Nutrition, 10(suppl_1), S49-S66.
- Hill, C., Guarner, F., Reid, G., Gibson, G. R., Merenstein, D. J., Pot, B., ... & Sanders, M. E. (2014). Expert consensus document: The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the scope and appropriate use of the term probiotic. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 11(8), 506-514.