Amazing ways probiotics can help you

Probiotics are a hot topic right now – but did you know their benefits go further than just your gut wellbeing?

The name itself is a clue – derived from Latin and Greek, it translates to “for life”.

Probiotics are live microorganisms (“good” bacteria and yeast) ingested via fermented foods and drinks like kombucha, yoghurt, sauerkraut, tempeh and kimchi, as well as supplements.

Your gut is already home to trillions of microorganisms, and probiotics help to keep this ecosystem in check.

How? They colonise in the gut, crowding out “bad” bacteria and parasites.

And studies show they can influence our health in pretty amazing ways.

1. Gut health

As you’ve already heard, not at all of the organisms in our gut are friendly; in fact some are downright troublesome.

Our gut flora is highly sensitive to diet and illness, and medications such as antibiotics can lead to an imbalance.

When taken in sufficient amounts, probiotics can help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria.

Probiotics are also used to treat antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.

Again, it’s all to do with keeping the delicate balance in our gut ecosystem.

2. Immunity

Our gut and our immune systems are very closely linked.

In fact, a study by an Italian university shows gut-associated lymphoid tissue makes up almost 70 per cent of the entire immune system – and about 80 per cent of the body’s plasma cells are found in this tissue.

That means what happens in our gut can influence our immune function.

Research has found several probiotic strains support our immunity, which can help reduce the severity of common cold symptoms.

Look for a probiotic with clinically trialled strains to support a healthy immune system and help reduce the severity of symptoms and duration of the common cold.

3. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

With more attention now being given to the role of gut bacteria in irritable bowel syndrome, science is looking to probiotics to help reduce the occurrence of symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating, and to support bowel regularity.

4. Vaginal flora

Just like the intestinal tract, the vagina is a finely balanced ecosystem.

One of the most common causes of vaginal discomfort, mild vaginitis, is the result of an imbalance of the good and harmful bacteria usually found in your vagina.

But wait, there’s more

Different probiotic products can help with specific health needs.

Swisse’s Ultibiotic range of premium quality, fridge-free probiotics, includes particular probiotic strains tailored to support specific health needs.

This post is brought to you by the Swisse Ultibiotic probiotic range. Always read the label. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Follow the directions for use. Check the product label for storage details.

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