They might cause mild stomach problems, especially the first few days you start taking them. Maybe you’re wondering whether a specific condition you have could benefit from probiotics. If so, you might want to consult the World Gastroenterology Organization Global Guidelines. The best choice is to run your choice by your healthcare provider or ask for suggestions. They may be able to recommend products they know to be safe and effective.
Often probiotic supplements can help with functional gut disorders and other vague health symptoms that typically evade conventional diagnosis. A healthy and smoothly functioning gut is essential to our overall well-being. In fact, many vague health symptoms, like fatigue, anxiety, joint pain, and brain fog are thought to be linked to poor digestive health. And one of the best things you can do to improve your gut health is take probiotics. Some commercial probiotic supplements contain undesirable binders and fillers, including lactose or cornstarch that may cause a unpleasant effects, like gas and bloating, if you are sensitive to these ingredients. Plus, some of these brands have created advanced technology that preserves a probiotic supplement’s survival on the shelf and in your gut.
Therefore, check with a health professional before taking this if you are on any medications. While inulin is a great source of soluble fiber, some people are sensitive to it; if you do have some sensitivity, you may experience symptoms such as bloating, abdominal distension, and pain. Best for those interested in a highly tested product for general immune and intestinal health who do not have IBS. Whether you’re considering taking probiotics or want to learn more about them, this guide is for you. We’ve gathered all of our best articles to give you the information you need to find answers to your questions about probiotics. Find out why yogurt is good for your health — from improving your immune system to lowering your blood pressure.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain the balance of microorganisms in our gut, which is essential for overall health. While everyone can benefit from including probiotics in their diet, there are certain groups of people who may need them more than others.
Athletes
An increasing number of studies link gut health to mood and mental health (12). Yogurt is made by culturing milk with bacteria that produce lactic acid, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, although more strains can also be added. To help good bacteria flourish in your gut, it’s also useful to give them “food” to promote their growth. You can do this by eating foods high in prebiotic fiber, such as apples, garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas, beans, and nuts. Be sure to use a reputable product, start slowly, and get good advice from a trusted healthcare practitioner. Day-to-day diet and exercise are just as important, as many lifestyle factors affect your gut bacteria.
Athletes put their bodies through intense physical activity, which can sometimes lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria. This imbalance can affect digestion, absorption of nutrients, and overall performance. Taking probiotics can help athletes maintain a healthy gut microbiome and support their immune system.
All yogurts are required to be treated with the strains Lactobacillus bulgaricusand Streptococcus thermophilus. Scientists must standardize a mountain of sometimes conflicting evidence from thousands of studies, and then translate that evidence into clear recommendations for therapeutic probiotic use (83). Plus, the bacterial strains themselves are constantly evolving, as are the health and environments of their human hosts. The standardization of probiotics research is challenging because the human body contains a large and diverse set of microorganisms, which varies among countries — and even among individuals in the same country. Science has made tremendous strides in the past two decades toward understanding the roles that probiotics play in human health and disease. Still, probiotic research is in its infancy, and there’s much to learn.
Bloating and flatulence is a clear indication that the gut bacteria in your intestine are out of balance, with the bad bacteria outnumbering the good causing inefficient digestion. According to research at Kings College London that looked at the results of 12 different studies, probiotics are most effective when it comes to treating bowel issues. This is one of the reasons why probiotics are being recognized as a natural treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. While short term diarrhea is often caused by a gastroenteritis virus or food poisoning, it could also be a sign that your gut bacteria are off-kilter, especially if the issue is ongoing and not linked to another particular illness.
Individuals on Antibiotics
Antibiotics are known to kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria in the gut. This disruption can result in digestive issues such as diarrhea and bloating. By taking probiotics while on antibiotics, individuals can replenish the good bacteria in their gut and minimize these side effects.
People with Digestive Issues
Those who suffer from digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or diarrhea can benefit greatly from probiotics. Probiotics help regulate bowel movements, reduce inflammation in the gut, and improve overall digestive health.
Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses, may benefit from taking probiotics to boost their immune response. Probiotics have been shown to strengthen the gut barrier and reduce the risk of infections.
Conclusion
While probiotics can be beneficial for everyone, certain groups of people may need them more than others. Athletes, individuals on antibiotics, those with digestive issues, and people with weakened immune systems can all benefit from including probiotics in their daily routine.
