You’ve probably heard of probiotics, but do you know exactly what it is? If you don’t, not to worry, our Orlando GI experts have got you covered. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be consumed through fermented foods or supplements. The more studies are collected, the more evidence there is of the health benefits of probiotics. Here are a couple of reasons we find at the Digestive and Liver Center as to why you should get on that probiotic tip. Here it goes!
1. They help balance the good bacteria in your digestive system
Probiotics give a helping hand in restoring the natural balance of gut bacteria. If you have an imbalance, it’s most likely caused due to an illness, medication, bad diet, antibiotics, etc. which means you have an abundance of bad bacteria. The penalties of having an improper balance is having digestive issues, allergies, obesity, mental health issues, and more.
2. They can help treat diarrhea as well as prevent it
According to our Orlando physicians at the Digestive and Liver Center, diarrhea is actually a common side effect of taking antibiotics. This happens because while antibiotics help fight bacteria, it’s not like it can tell what’s good bacteria and what’s bad bacteria. Therefore, it disrupts the balance of bad AND good bacteria in the body.
3. They can support the improvement of some mental health conditions
One of the other benefits of probiotics is that several studies have linked gut health to mood and mental health. An example of this is that one study followed 40 patients with depression. They took probiotic supplements for 8 weeks decreasing depression levels and reduced the levels of C-reactive protein.
4. Certain probiotic strains can keep your heart healthy
Being one of the benefits of probiotics, taking them can help your heart by lowering LDL, also known as the bad cholesterol, as well as help lower your blood pressure. This happens when specific lactic-acid producing bacteria reduces the cholesterol by breaking down the bile in the body. Ask your Orlando GI doctor to recommend a good probiotic supplements so you can take advantage of these benefits.
5. They help boost your immune system
Some types of probiotics promote the production of natural antibodies in your body. With this, you are more likely to be able to fight against infections.
6. Facilitate the lessening of symptoms for some digestive disorders
Probiotic strains like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus have been proven to improve symptoms in people with mild ulcerative colitis. Other digestive disorders like IBS and necrotizing enterocolitis can also partake in the benefits of probiotics because the symptoms of those diseases are reduced as well.
All in all, our GI doctors in the Orlando area recommend taking probiotics on a daily basis. Whether it’s through a dietary supplement, or by simply adding yogurt to your snacks, consuming it will definitely play a role in your digestive health. For more tips and tricks, check out of blog. If you want tot make an appointment with one of our Orlando GI doctors at the Digestive and Liver Center, call (407)384-7388.