The definition of biotic means life! When we ingest a probiotic from a food or a supplement, we add life-giving organisms to our body. These organisms help maintain a healthy digestive system. Probiotics are life, unlike antibiotics, which essentially mean anti life. Probiotics are microorganisms or microbes. The gut and especially the colon, is the main location in the human body for these microorganisms. This is called the microbiome, and their main function is to keep everything in our gut balanced. For a microbe to be named a probiotic, it must be isolated from a human. It must survive in your intestines after ingestion. Additionally, it must be beneficial and safe to consume. (1) (2)
OUR MICROBIOME
Unfortunately, the time period we live in there are many things that can disrupt our microbiomes (gut flora) delicate balance. Some of these things include antibiotics, medicines, stress, diet, over consumption of sugar, and many more things. This has given rise to many people suffering from gut issues. When your gut becomes unbalanced, it is called dysbiosis. Conditions like these can occur, IBD, IBS, diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular problems, and central nervous system disorders. Many more health problems can occur as well when your body is not functioning properly. There are many things that can cause problems with our gut microbiome. This situation underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy gut.
A LITTLE PROBIOTIC HISTORY
Stamen Gigov Grigorov discovered Lactobacillus bulgarius bacillus in the use of making yogurt. He was a Bulgarian Physician and Microbiologist, and he first identified it in 1905. We’ve had many years to research probiotics since then. In my opinion, not enough research has been done since he first identified them in 1905. Nonetheless, there have been enough studies done to see that probiotics can help support our bodies.(3)
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Like any other supplement or medicine, there’s a possibility that negative side effects will occur. For instance, taking probiotics may result in bloating, gas, or diarrhea. But because it is generally considered safe, probiotics may not always need to be accompanied by medical intervention. Sometimes the side effects are from your gut balancing out. Still, for those who experience negative side effects, we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional. It is important to discuss the appropriate next steps.
PROBIOTIC FOODS
Probiotics can come in the form of food or supplements. Some of the types of food that contain probiotics are: (4)
1) Yogurt
2) Sauerkraut
3) Miso Soup
4) Soft Cheeses
5) Kefir
6) Sourdough Bread
7) Acidophilus Milk
8) Kombucha
9) Natto
PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS
As far as supplements, there are a great many on the market. It is actually overwhelming to try and figure out which one you need for your body. You also will want to use a very high-quality probiotic. I still recommend finding a naturopathic doctor that can also help guide you along in this process. Not all supplemental probiotics are made the same. Different kinds of probiotics help your body in different ways.
WHAT I PERSONALLY USE
I personally use products from the company TransFormation. The probiotic I currently use is Probiotic 42.5. This is a reputable company, and for me, their products work. You can click HERE to check into them more. They offer several types of digestive enzymes and probiotics for your bodies specific needs. You can even talk with a consultant, and they can help direct you to the right one for you! I hope this will help you to find the perfect probiotic regimen. Whether through the foods we eat or extra supplements, these elements bring life to our gut. They ultimately bring balance to our bodies.
You may use the code MCCARTY25- to receive a 25% off discount through TransFormation.
“Health is Wealth!”
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