Believe it or not, the average human’s stomach and intestine relies on an army of gentle minions to keep one hale and hearty. In the intricate ecosystem of the human body, the gut is so crucial to health and vitality that it is often called the second brain. And guess who operates this second brain? It’s this army of minions. These minions are microbial entities such as good bacteria and yeast which help with digestion and immunity. Also called as Probiotics, these live microorganisms often thrive in the human body showcasing a symbiotic relationship. An average human gut is home to home to trillions of microorganisms and billions of colonies of bacteria.
These minions are microbial entities such as good bacteria and yeast which help with digestion and immunity. Also called as Probiotics, these live microorganisms often thrive in the human body showcasing a symbiotic relationship. An average human gut is home to home to trillions of microorganisms and billions of colonies of bacteria.
PROBIOTICS: WHAT RESEARCH SAYS?
While there are many ways to maintain this army of good bacteria, the easiest approach is dietary inclusion of fermented foods such as yogurt, curd, lassi, kefir, sauerkraut, and other supplements. According to a 2021 study published in the journal Nutrients, probiotic supplementation resulted in increased microbial diversity which in turn reduced the onset of chronic diseases.
Probiotics also play a crucial role in regulating gut motility and function, thereby alleviating symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Another study, published in the Journal of Gastroenterology, found probiotics significantly improved symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits.
These minions remain the favorite to every nutritionist with the adage – A Good Bacteria = Happy Human. In fact, probiotics are better than consuming Apples, if one wishes to keep the doctor away. A British Journal of Nutrition found that probiotic supplementation reduced the risk and duration of respiratory tract infections, such as common cold and flu.
BUT NOT ALL PROBIOTICS ARE EQUAL
With latest studies showcasing the positive effect of probiotics to mental health and cognitive function, many users have started consuming over the counter probiotic supplementation. Growing awareness of the benefits has resulted in several new products. This could be one reason why many are incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kimchi, and even miso into your diet.
Also recommended are high-quality probiotic supplements which can help cultivate a thriving gut microbiome and unleash the full potential of your health. Probiotics play a vital role in supporting gut health and overall well-being by promoting microbial diversity, regulating digestive function, modulating immune response, and even influencing mental health. But, it’s important to note that not all probiotic strains are created equal.
Different strains exert distinct effects on the body, and the efficacy of probiotic supplements may vary depending on factors such as dosage, formulation, and even individual response. Hence, it’s essential to choose probiotic supplements that contain clinically proven strains and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.
Shared by: Sanchi Tiwari, Nutritionist Lord’s Mark Biotech
