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What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms, often referred to as "good bacteria," that offer a range of health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. These beneficial bacteria naturally reside in your gut, helping maintain a balanced microbiome. Scientifically, probiotics are defined as live bacteria and yeasts that confer health benefits by supporting or restoring gut flora. Common strains include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces boulardii, each offering unique health benefits. Probiotics are found in fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso, as well as in supplement form. Unlike harmful bacteria that can cause illness, probiotics work to improve gut health, strengthen the immune system, and support overall well-being.

What Will They Do for Me?

Adding probiotics to your routine can have a profound impact on your health, particularly in areas related to digestion and immunity. Probiotics help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, which can be disrupted by factors like antibiotics, stress, or an unbalanced diet. This restoration can alleviate digestive issues like diarrhoea, bloating, and constipation. Additionally, probiotics enhance immune function by supporting the production of antibodies and reducing inflammation. Emerging research also links probiotics to improved mental health, as they influence the gut-brain axis and the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin. Other benefits include better nutrient absorption, reduced severity of allergies, and support for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Essentially, probiotics play a key role in maintaining a healthy gut, which in turn impacts nearly every aspect of your health.

How Do I Best Use Them?

To maximise the benefits of probiotics, consistency is crucial. Start by incorporating probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, or kombucha into your diet. For those who need more targeted support, probiotic supplements are a convenient option. When choosing a supplement, look for strains that address your specific needs, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for immunity or Bifidobacterium longum for digestion. Timing can also matter: taking probiotics on an empty stomach or 30 minutes before meals may improve their survival through the stomach's acidic environment. If you're new to probiotics, start with a lower dose and gradually increase to avoid mild side effects like gas or bloating. Pair probiotics with a balanced diet that includes prebiotic fibres (such as garlic, onions, or bananas) to feed the beneficial bacteria and enhance their efficacy. Hydration is also essential, as it supports probiotic activity in the gut. We offer our probiotic as part of our Harmony of the Gods range, which is a 50 billion CFU probiotic supplement covering a broad variety of species. 

Are Probiotic Supplements Necessary?

While dietary sources of probiotics are excellent, supplements can be particularly helpful for specific needs or health conditions. For example, probiotics can restore gut health after antibiotic use, as antibiotics often disrupt the gut microbiome by killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria. Additionally, individuals with chronic digestive issues like IBS, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or lactose intolerance may benefit from targeted probiotic supplements. However, not all supplements are created equal. It's important to select products with clinically studied strains, a high colony-forming unit (CFU) count, and proper packaging to ensure the bacteria remain alive until consumption. Look for products with clear labelling, such as strain names and CFU counts, as well as certifications for quality assurance. If in doubt, consult a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable probiotic for your needs.

How Do Probiotics Work with Prebiotics?

Probiotics and prebiotics are a perfect pair when it comes to optimising gut health. While probiotics are the live bacteria that improve gut function, prebiotics are the non-digestible fibres that serve as food for these bacteria. Prebiotics help probiotics thrive by creating an environment where beneficial bacteria can grow and colonise effectively. This relationship is synergistic: prebiotics enhance the survival of probiotics as they pass through the stomach's acidic environment and into the gut. Together, they can improve digestion, strengthen immunity, and support the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that promote gut health. Many supplements now combine both prebiotics and probiotics into a single product, known as a synbiotic, simplifying the process of improving gut health. Whether through foods or supplements, using them together ensures a more comprehensive approach to supporting your microbiome.

So What's the Bottom Line?

Probiotics are a powerful tool for improving gut health, digestion, and overall well-being. When paired with prebiotics, their benefits are amplified, providing a balanced and thriving gut environment. By incorporating probiotic-rich foods or supplements into your daily routine, you’re taking an essential step toward better digestion, immunity, and even mental clarity. With the right approach, probiotics can be a cornerstone of your health journey, delivering benefits that extend far beyond the gut.

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