A lot of people have heard about probiotics but don’t know much about them or their benefits. They are basically substances that promote the growth of microorganisms in the body. These microorganisms are beneficial as they help the organs perform their functions properly. For example, intestinal flora are the bacteria that are found in the digestive tract and help in making the digestive process easier by breaking down all the consumed food. Probiotics can be found in food and also through pills and supplements.
There are many health benefits of consuming probiotics and they should be part of a healthy and balanced diet. Here are just some of the benefits:
- Good for the stomach
As mentioned earlier, probiotics are really beneficial for aiding digestion in the body and are vital for regulating an upset stomach. A household remedy is to eat yogurt whenever someone has diarrhea or problems relieving themselves. The “good” bacteria found in yogurt cling to the gastro-intestinal tract and sooth the upset stomach lining, so any stomach aches and bad tummy issues are resolved with yogurt. They restore the balance in the intestines and the stomach.
However, probiotics can be found in other foods as well, such as green algae, apple cider vinegar, pickles, kimchi etc. The key is to get fermented and cultured food when it comes to probiotics.
- Good for the mind
Research has also shown that gut health is linked to mental health. Having an upset stomach can cause one to get stressed out and can lead to depression as well if the problem persists for a longer period. Therefore, if you have a smooth-running digestive system, you will be less likely to have any emotional or psychological problems. At the end of the day, a healthy body results in a healthy mind and vice versa.
- They keep your heart in good shape
Some probiotics in foods such as spirulina, chlorella, tofu and olives promote HDL (good cholesterol and remove LDL (bad cholesterol). This is because they help in breaking down bile and stop it from being absorbed in the gut. Yet another reason for using olive oil and eating seaweed algae as it is great for the heart.
- They help in weight loss
Who doesn’t want to lose those extra pounds of fat? Probiotics is the way to go if you want to go on a diet and easily lose the weight. That is why most people incorporate yogurt, olive oil, and drinks with apple cider vinegar into their daily diets. Having fruit smoothies also helps instead of consuming junk food as it will keep you fuller longer and help burn calories faster.
- Boosts immunity
Probiotics strengthen the immune system by promoting the growth of good bacteria and preventing the growth of harmful ones that can later on weaken your immunity.
Besides food sources, there a wide amount of over-the-counter probiotics that provide concentrated dose of “good” bacteria. Consult your primary care physician for more information. To make an appointment with Dr. Parikh at Health One Family Medicine, visit www.healthONEmedicine.com or call 469-262-5762.