Probiotics Supplements: A Simple Guide to Boosting Your Gut Health
What are probiotics, and how can they help keep your gut healthy? Helalmedical offers an easy-to-understand guide to probiotics, discussing the different types, their benefits, and their potential side effects. In this article you find a comprehensive beginner’s guide to probiotics that explains what they are, their different types, their food sources, the best supplements to take, how they work, and their potential health benefits.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed properly. They are mainly bacteria and certain types of yeasts. These microorganisms are naturally present in our gut, called microbiomes. Also, you can obtain them from certain foods and supplements. They work by restoring the natural balance of microorganisms in the gut, which can be disrupted by various factors, including antibiotics, stress, and poor diet. Taking probiotics can improve digestion, boost immunity, and alleviate various health issues.
Probiotics are available in many forms, including supplements, fermented foods, and even beauty products. Different strains of probiotics offer different health benefits, so, choose the right supplement or food source based on your needs.
Sources of Probiotics
Probiotics are naturally present in various foods, including Yogurt and other fermented dairy products, Kefir, Sauerkraut, Kimchi, Pickles and others.
The potential health benefits of probiotics of probiotics
Curious about the potential health benefits of probiotics? The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health provides an in-depth guide to probiotics and their potential health benefits. Probiotics offer numerous health benefits, and their consumption has been associated with the following:
- Improved Digestion:
They can improve digestion by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which aids in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. They can also improve diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other conditions.
- Enhanced Immunity
As our gut is the home to a big portion of our immune system, and probiotics can help strengthen it. They can boost the production of antibodies and other immune cells.
- Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injuries and infections. But, chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, and heart disease. Probiotics can promote the growth of anti-inflammatory bacteria in the gut.
- Alleviated Allergies and Skin Conditions
Probiotics can alleviate allergies and skin conditions such as eczema by reducing inflammation.
What are Probiotics Supplements?
Probiotics supplements are sources of concentrated live microorganisms that can provide us with many health benefits. They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and drinks. They contain a specific strain or combination of strains of beneficial bacteria and yeasts.
Different strains of probiotics offer different health benefits, That’s why you have to purchase supplements that are suitable to your needs. For example, some strains may help alleviate digestive issues, while others may enhance immunity or reduce inflammation. Products from reputable companies are typically labeled with the correct information. So, read carefully what is written on the container cover.
How to Choose the Right Probiotics Supplements
When choosing a probiotics supplement, there are several factors to consider, including:
- Strain Diversity
Different strains of probiotics offer various health benefits, so it’s important to choose a supplement with a combination of strains that can provide a broader range of benefits, as each strain works differently to support your gut health.
- Higher CFU Count
A higher CFU count, colony-forming units which refers to the number of live bacteria in the supplement, is generally more effective. Even though, you need to choose a supplement with a count appropriate for your needs.
- Choose a reputable brand
with high-quality standards and reliable manufacturing processes. Look for certifications such as GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) to ensure the product meets quality standards.
- Intended Use
Consider the reason you’re taking the supplement and choose a strain or combination of strains that suits your goals. For example, if you’re looking to alleviate digestive issues, you may want to choose a supplement with strains that have been linked to improving digestion.
- Choose a form that is convenient for you
Probiotics supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and drinks. Choose a form that is convenient and easy for you to incorporate into your daily routine.
Top recommended probiotics supplements
1- Physician’s CHOICE Probiotics 60 Billion CFU – 10 Diverse Strains Plus Organic Prebiotic, Designed for Overall Digestive Health and Supports Occasional Constipation, Diarrhea, Gas & Bloating
2- Probiotic 40 Billion CFU – Probiotics for Women and Men with Prebiotics, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Astragalus for Gut Health, Digestive Relief – Shelf Stable Supplement, Non-GMO, 60 Capsules
3- Earth’s Pearl Prebiotics and Probiotics for Women and Men, Gut Health Probiotic and Prebiotic Blend, Kids Probiotic, 60 Day Supply of Probiotics for Digestive Health
Read more about probiotics and Supplements
SUMMARY
Here are some general tips to keep in mind when looking for probiotic supplements: Look for products with a high number of CFUs (colony-forming units) per serving. The CFU count should be listed on the product label, choose a product that contains a variety of different strains of probiotics, as each strain has unique benefits, check for any additional ingredients or fillers in the product that may be undesirable, Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency and finally read customer reviews to get an idea of the product’s effectiveness and any potential side effects.
