With all the talk about probiotics, you’ve probably–at one point or another–considered supplementing. The idea of consuming bacteria, however, may seem a bit alien to most people, simply because they’ve been brainwashed to believe all bacteria is bad. The praising of antibiotics and antibacterials in mainstream culture has simply perpetuated this myth. Probiotics, on the other hand, are symbiotic organisms that help you digest food, stimulate your immune system (thus helping fight infections!), and even produces some of the vitamins you need for life.
Beyond Digestion: The Health Benefits of Probiotics
Your gut is where digestion happens and where most of your immune response occurs. A lot of the nutrients you get come from friendly bacteria which help digest the food you eat. Probiotics also produce essential nutrients like vitamin B3 and folate. [1] Bad bacteria, like E. coli and C. difficile, produce toxins that poison, cause illness, and speed the aging process.
When friendly probiotics like Bifidobacterium infantis line your intestines, germs like E. coli get swept away and do no harm. They also break down fiber and sugars that lead to bloating, gas, and aggravate conditions like IBS. [2] And studies have shown that men and women with balanced levels of probiotic bacteria can focus and concentrate better and enjoy stronger bones, normal blood sugar, fewer allergies, and better cardiovascular health. [3] [4]
The Importance of a Healthy Gut
Your life depends on the health of your gut. When you don’t have enough probiotic bacteria, germs and toxins attack the lining of the intestine. This damages the cells lining your intestine, and with enough damage, germs and toxins get into your blood. While you may not see this happening, you feel the results.
Frequent bloating and gas indicate there’s a problem with your digestive system, and probably indicates your intestines are running low in beneficial bacteria. But you may also experience frequent headaches, increased allergic response, blood sugar spikes, and chronic illness.
And on top of all this, a sick gut reduces your ability to digest nutrients. This disrupts how your hormones work, starves your mitochondria (energy source of the cell), and slows metabolism. Think of it this way: your probiotic bacteria are the gatekeepers of your gut. Keep them strong, and they’ll keep the bad guys out and keep your gut working efficiently. Read more
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