Probiotics… what do they really do for us?
Most of us know that probiotics are LIVE bacteria that we can use to promote a healthy digestive system, but did you know they can be beneficial for other parts of our body as well?
We use probiotics to help support the good bacteria that is already living in our digestive tract. Balancing the intestinal flora can optimize digestion and therefore the absorption of the important nutrients that we use all over our body. Many of these nutrients are an essential part of our diet, because our bodies cannot generate them, so it is very important that our digestive system is functioning at its best.
The gut is very closely linked to our immune systems. Not only will we be absorbing important immune boosting nutrients like vitamin C, but the good bacteria can also help to fight off any pathogens that we may consume.
Recent studies have also found that probiotics can also help to lower cholesterol levels in those with hypercholesterolemia.
Many of the benefits that we see with probiotics are dose AND strain specific. Talk to your Naturopathic Doctor to determine which probiotic will be the most effective for you and your health goals.
In the meantime, you can get some probiotics through the foods you eat. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut are great examples of probiotic rich foods.