The importance of consuming probiotics: gut health and beyond
In recent decades, interest in probiotics has grown exponentially, both in the scientific community and in society at large. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host.
These benefits are especially notable in the digestive system but also extend to other areas of human health. This article will explore the importance of consuming probiotics and how they can contribute to a healthier life.
What benefits do probiotics have for our digestive health?
Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which is crucial for proper digestion and the prevention of common digestive problems such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and intestinal inflammation.
Some of the conditions they help prevent include the following:
Prevention of diarrhea:
Some studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
This is because antibiotics, while eliminating pathogenic bacteria, can also destroy the beneficial bacteria in the gut, and probiotics help restore this balance.
Prevention of orritable bowel syndrome (IBS):
Probiotics can help relieve IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. Specific strains, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, have been shown to be effective in treating IBS.
Boosting the immune system:
The gut houses approximately 70% of the body’s immune system. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiota can contribute to a better immune response. In our article, "How to Strengthen the Immune System?" you can find tips for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Probiotics help stimulate the production of natural antibodies and enhance the activity of immune cells like T lymphocytes and natural killer cells.
Reduction of respiratory infections:
Some studies suggest that probiotics may reduce the incidence and duration of common respiratory infections, such as colds and flu. This is due to their ability to strengthen the gut's immune barrier, which plays a crucial role in protecting against pathogens.
How do probiotics contribute to mental health?
The connection between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the "gut-brain axis," is a growing area of research. Probiotics have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health by influencing neurotransmitter production and reducing inflammation. Some conditions they may help with include:
Anxiety and depression:
Some research has found that probiotics may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as strains like Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum have shown anxiolytic and antidepressant effects in clinical studies.
Weight control:
Probiotics may play a role in weight control and obesity prevention. They help regulate metabolism and nutrient absorption and may influence feelings of satiety.
Are probiotics beneficial for my skin?
The impact of probiotics also extends to skin health. A healthy gut can reflect in healthier skin and a lower likelihood of issues such as acne. We share 5 tips to delay aging that you can follow while consuming probiotics.
Why is PROBIOTICS Blend the Best Option?
Dr. Horacio Astudillo de la Vega, CEO of Nanopharmacia Group, has developed the formula for PROBIOTICS Blend, a mix of probiotics combined with resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that ensures beneficial bacteria reach the gut microbiota alive.
PROBIOTICS Blend is enriched with Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis A019 and Streptococcus thermophilus A336, native bacteria from the gut flora since the neonatal phase and responsible for the same flora.
Incorporating probiotics into the diet, through fermented foods like yogurt or via supplements, can be an effective strategy for improving overall health.
However, it’s essential to remember that not all probiotics are the same, and their effects can vary depending on the strain and amount consumed. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional before starting any probiotic regimen is advisable.
We share the LinkedIn profile of Dr. Horacio Astudillo de la Vega, as he has significant experience and training in creating formulas for dietary supplements using nanotechnology that helps you utilize over 95% of the active ingredients.
In the article, "Benefits of Consuming Dietary Supplements with Nanotechnology" you will learn how nanotechnology works in the human body and why it is the best option for dietary supplements.
If you want to explore the full range of products developed through the extensive research of Horacio Astudillo de la Vega, you can visit the official website of Nanopharmacia Group.
References:
Digestive health:
- McFarland, L. V. (2010). "Systematic review and meta-analysis of Saccharomyces boulardii in adult patients." World Journal of Gastroenterology. Disponible en: NCBI.
Immune system boost:
- Walker, W. A. (2008). "Mechanisms of action of probiotics." Clinical Infectious Diseases. Disponible en: PubMed.
Mental health:
- Dinan, T. G., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). "The Microbiome-Gut-Brain Axis in Health and Disease." Gastroenterology Clinics of North America. Disponible en: ScienceDirect.
- Messaoudi, M., Lalonde, R., Violle, N., Javelot, H., Desor, D., Nejdi, A., ... & Cazaubiel, M. (2011). "Assessment of psychotropic-like properties of a probiotic formulation (Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175) in rats and human subjects." The British Journal of Nutrition. Disponible en: PubMed.
Weight control :
- Kadooka, Y., Sato, M., Ogawa, A., Miyoshi, M., Uenishi, H., Nagata, S., ... & Yajima, N. (2010). "Effect of Lactobacillus gasseri LG2055 on abdominal adiposity in adults: a randomised controlled trial." The British Journal of Nutrition. Disponible en: PubMed.
Skin health:
- Pelucchi, C., Chatenoud, L., Turati, F., Galeone, C., Moja, L., Bach, J. F., ... & La Vecchia, C. (2012). "Probiotics supplementation during pregnancy or infancy for the prevention of atopic dermatitis: a meta-analysis." Epidemiology. Disponible en: PubMed.