Benefits of Probiotics

If you’re interested in health and wellness, you’ve likely heard the word “probiotics” mentioned here and there—and you may even have some friends who swear by them. So why are they so popular and what should you know about them before you join the bandwagon? Read on for our Probiotics 101 and find out what the benefits of probiotics are.

Though “bacteria” get a bad rap as something that causes disease or illness, our large and small intestines are actually naturally full of trillions of both good and bad bacteria. The key to a healthy gut is to have a balance of more good bacteria than bad. Consuming probiotics, which are live bacteria and yeasts, can help you achieve that balance. There are many foods that contain probiotics—such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and other fermented foods and drinks. If you’re not consuming enough through your diet, consider adding a probiotic supplement to your regimen.

Here are a few different reasons probiotics are important for your health:

• Immune Function. According to many experts, more than 70% of immune response comes from a healthy intestinal balance or your “biome.” Probiotic bacteria can help promote a healthy gut microbiome balance to optimize the health of your immune system.
• Digestion. Probiotics help us digest our food and turn it into nutrients our bodies can use, such as essential B vitamins. Some of the food we intake has large carbohydrate molecules which are difficult to break down; probiotics help to break these down into smaller, more digestible molecules.
• Fighting bad bacteria.There are some bacteria that do deserve the bad rap they get— these bad bacteria and yeast can lead to symptoms like gas, bloating, food sensitivities, constipation, and diarrhea. Daily probiotic supplementation can help to normalize gut function and flora and kill off these troublemaking bacteria.
• Reducing inflammation.Research has shown there’s a correlation between the aforementioned bad bacteria in the intestines and inflamed joints. If you’re experiencing joint trouble, probiotics may help reduce inflammation throughout your body.
• Weight loss. Research has shown that an absence of good bacteria in the gut may be connected to weight gain. Consume probiotics to help restore the balance.

Ready to add probiotics to your diet? Not all are alike: sourcing safe, effective probiotics is essential. Here are a few tips on what to look for in good probiotics:

• The strain. Be sure you’re looking for the appropriate strain for your condition. Some strains are very helpful for intestinal issues, for instance, and others are not.
• Variety. Research shows that good probiotics should contain a variety of different good bacteria. Look for a formula with at least five or more types.
• Potency. To have a positive effect on your health, a good probiotic should have at least 10 billion live organisms per serving.

Order our daily probiotic, which contains seven proven bacteria strains and 20 Billion CFU.