Probiotics

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for you, especially your digestive system.  Usually think of these as germs that cause diseases. But your body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are often called "good" or "helpful" bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy.

You can find probiotics in supplements and some foods. Doctors often suggest them to help with digestive problems.

Natural probiotics

Examples of natural probiotics

Kefir

A fermented milk drink made with kefir grains, which is a combination of bacteria and yeast.

Yogurt

Contains lactobacillus, a common strain of good bacteria 

Sauerkraut

Made from fermented cabbage and other probiotic vegetables 

Kombucha

A sweetened fermented black tea that contains gut-beneficial bacteria and yeast species 

Kimchi

A traditional Korean food that includes cabbage and spices like ginger and garlic 

Miso

Rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and beneficial bacteria 

Pickled cucumbers

A great source of healthy probiotic bacteria 

Buttermilk

Commonly found in stores today is often made by fermenting pasteurised milk with lactic acid bacteria 

When choosing a probiotic, look for one that is safe to consume, contains viable microbes, and can survive the journey through your digestive tract.

Probiotics supplement

Suggested by (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-probiotic-supplement)

Best overall: Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic Capsules 

Best for bloating: Mindbodygreen Advanced Probiotic+

Most budget friendly: Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS Capsule

Best for inflammation: SFI Health Ther-Biotic Pro IBS Relief | Skip to review

Best for weight loss: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics

Best for general GI discomfort: Klean Athlete Probiotic Capsules

Best for diarrhea: Florastor Daily Probiotic Capsules

Best for men: Hyperbiotics Pro Men 

Best for women: Rael Vaginal Health Probiotic Supplement 

How Do They Work?

Researchers are trying to figure out exactly how probiotics work.When you lose "good" bacteria in your body, for example after you take antibiotics, probiotics can help replace them.

They can help balance your "good" and "bad" bacteria to keep your body working the way it should.

What Do They Do?

Among other things, probiotics help send food through your gut by affecting nerves that control gut movement. Researchers are still trying to figure out which are best for certain health problems. Some common conditions they treat are:

Irritable bowel syndrome

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Infectious diarrhea (caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites)

Diarrhea caused by antibiotics

There is also some research that shows they're useful for problems in other parts of your body. 

Probiotics Safety

The FDA regulates probiotics like foods, not like medications. Unlike drug companies, makers of probiotic supplements don't have to show their products are safe or that they work.

Ask your doctor

 if taking probiotics is a good idea for you. In general, probiotic foods and supplements are thought to be safe for most people, though some people with immune system problems or other serious health conditions shouldn't take them.

In some cases, mild side effects might include an upset stomach, diarrhea, gas, and bloating for the first couple of days after you start taking them. They may also trigger allergic reactions. Stop taking them and talk to your doctor if you have problems.

Compiled by

Ms Naresh kuwar