Probiotics, which are live microorganisms that support digestive health, are often used to treat a number of digestive disorders.
They may also help reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health. They’re important for preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea, as well as reducing symptoms of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Clostridium difficile colitis, infectious diarrhea and Crohn’s disease, among others.
Some of the best probiotics are also great for promoting mental health and helping reduce stress levels. They’re designed to target your gut-brain axis and help with mood problems, such as anxiety or depression.
You can get your probiotics from foods such as kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi. These products, which are fermented to keep the bacteria alive, tend to be less processed than other probiotic supplements.
It’s important to read the labels of any supplement you decide to buy to ensure that it contains the correct strains and has been stored correctly. Some strains of probiotics are very sensitive to heat, oxygen and light, so if they aren’t stored properly they can break down or die.
Look for a high CFU count, or colony forming units, of specific, clinically studied best probiotics strains. This will be an indication that a product is providing you with the proper amount of live bacteria to boost your gut’s natural ecosystem.
Keeping a healthy gut microbiome is essential for the health of your entire body. This microbiome helps the body absorb nutrients from food, fight off infections and regulate immune function. It also plays a crucial role in your emotional well-being, because it communicates with your brain in ways that can be triggered by gut-related issues.
These benefits are why many experts recommend taking a probiotic supplement. But before you do so, you should learn a few things about them.
The first thing to remember is that there are thousands of different probiotic bacteria species, and each of these microorganisms has a different impact on your body. The most common ones include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
You’ll need to take a probiotic daily to ensure your gut microbiome is healthy. Most people find that they get the most benefit from a multi-strain probiotic supplement.
A good multi-strain probiotic will contain at least five to 10 billion CFUs. This can vary based on your health concerns, so talk to your doctor for personalized guidance.
Ideally, you should aim to consume between 5 billion and 20 billion CFUs of probiotics per day for both children and adults. This is a safe and effective way to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
If you aren’t sure which probiotic is right for you, you can consult a professional who specializes in complementary and integrative medicine. This person can review your gut microbiota to ensure it’s healthy and then suggest a probiotic supplement that could be most helpful for you.
Your gut’s microbiome is a dynamic, living ecosystem that influences your entire body’s health in so many ways. That’s why many medical professionals believe that a healthy gut microbiome is the foundation of your entire wellness plan.