Bacteria is often associated with a negative mindset, when in reality, bacteria and yeast (the right kinds) are actually good for you, and an important part of the digestion system. Probiotics, one of the good bacteria in the body, are used to help digest food, destroy disease-causing cells, and produce vitamins.

You can find probiotics in tons of fermented drinks and foods, like kombucha or yogurt. The most common form is from the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus groups.

When you consume probiotics, it helps the bad and good bacteria found in the gut separately. People take probiotic supplements to make sure there is enough good bacteria in the gut lining to protect from harmful bacteria and viruses. The fact of the matter is, without probiotics, the integrity of our gut lining can become compromised, allowing harmful bacteria and viruses to produce.

If you lack good bacteria, you could have inflammatory conditions in the gut that could lead to worse systemic inflammation later on. Here’s why you should take probiotics.

What are the benefits of probiotic supplements?

Improved gut function

The main job of probiotics is to prevent gut dysfunction and disease by fighting bad bacteria and viruses. They work to help digest and utilize nutrients, promote smooth digestion, as well as a good gut lining and barrier. You will experience less gas, bloating and diarrhea while having regular bowel movements.

Healthier skin

Probiotics can also reduce eczema and dermatitis. Essentially, the skin is covered in good bacteria as well, and any imbalance or disruption of good bacteria on the skin can lead to eczema, rashes, acne, and rosacea.

Improved immunity

Probiotics boost immune cells throughout the body to help cells fight disease and infection.

Boosts mental health

Certain probiotic strains can reduce anxiety and depression, boosting mood and cognition.

Promotes heart health

Probiotics can help reduce cholesterol.

Can anyone take probiotic supplements?

Although you should always speak to your doctor or dietitian when starting a new thing, depending on your health goals, probiotics could be extremely beneficial for your body. It helps with high blood pressure, lactose intolerance, constipation, yeast infections, irritable bowel syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, colitis, and colon cancer.

The easiest way to consume probiotics is in a supplement form that you take daily. Secondly, you could eat fermented foods like veggies (sauerkraut, kimchi) or kombucha to improve your IBS, immunity, cholesterol, and mental health. Lastly, you could add more fibrous foods like apples and whole grains to your diet to help feed and grow probiotics.

Are there any side effects?

The most common side effects are loose stool or gas during the first few days taking probiotic supplements. But rest assured, this will go away in a few days. Always start with a gentle dose or speak to a medical professional if side effects continue past the first week.

Gut health is important, so the next time you go on a drinking binge, make sure to get some Pedialyte for recovery.

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