A healthy gut is of the utmost importance for general well-being. Our intestine or large intestine contains a complex community of microorganisms called “gut flora”. Consisting of yeasts, viruses, and primarily bacteria, the intestinal flora helps perform several critical functions in the gut, such as aiding digestion and boosting our immune system. In fact, the gastrointestinal tract makes up about 70% of our immune system. The friendly bacteria that colonize our gut can also be found in various foods or natural probiotic supplements.
probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, provide several benefits to the host. Probiotics can be found in foods like yogurt, tempeh, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, among others.
You can also purchase probiotic supplements that contain various species and strains of beneficial bacteria that are known to confer different benefits to the consumer.
Difference Between Probiotics and Prebiotics
You can also find natural products on the market called prebiotics. Prebiotics refer to the dietary fibers that beneficial bacteria (probiotics) feed on.
Prebiotics are useful in supporting the intestinal flora that occupies the intestine.
The need for natural probiotic supplements
Pollution, junk food, and antibiotic use are some of the potential factors that can upset the necessary balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Restoring this balance may require the consumption of probiotics.
Although foods that contain probiotics can provide several health benefits, they often contain a low concentration of probiotics. Probiotic supplements, on the other hand, contain high doses of probiotics that can help have a positive impact on digestive health and general well-being.
Different types of bacteria used in probiotics
There are several different groups of bacteria that tend to provide different benefits when used in natural probiotic supplements.
When shopping for probiotic supplements, be sure to read the product label carefully to assess the species and strains of bacteria used in the supplement, as well as their amounts.
The most common groups of bacteria used in natural probiotic supplements include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Probiotic Supplements and Digestive Health
Probiotics have been studied the most with respect to their digestive health benefits. Here is a list of some of the benefits of probiotic bacteria for the digestive system:
• Cure antibiotic-associated diarrhea
When a person takes antibiotics to treat an ailment over a long period of time, the natural balance of good bacteria in the gut is upset. This is known to cause antibiotic-associated diarrhea that persists for a considerable time even after the antibiotics have been discontinued.
Probiotics can help replenish beneficial bacteria, restore balance to intestinal flora, and treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
• Treat irritable bowel syndrome
Consuming natural probiotic supplements relieves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome such as gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
• Beneficial against a variety of other digestive diseases
Consuming probiotics can help you fight inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. They may also be beneficial against Helicobacter pylori infections, which are known to cause ulcers and stomach cancer.
Probiotic foods and supplements can go a long way toward maintaining your health and curing stubborn digestive ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome and digestive distress. For more information, visit: http://www.qualitynature.com/probiotic-advantage/