Probiotics are naturally occurring bacteria in our gut. The word 'Probiotic' is derived from a Latin word 'Pro’ meaning ‘Promoting’ and the Greek word 'Biotic' which means 'Life.' Probiotics are live microorganisms in the gut that have several health benefits. Many kinds of bacteria are probiotics, and you can get them from food or supplements. Maintaining a healthy digestive system requires more than just taking probiotics. 

Eating habits, stress level, the level of activity, sleep, etc., are all important in determining your digestive health. 

Probiotics Have Several Health Benefits Like:

It boosts the metabolism and helps with weight loss.It improves the immune system and decreases allergy.

It maintains hormonal balance, especially in women.It is a mood regulator.It promotes digestion.

Probiotics Improve Digestive Health By: 

  • Promoting digestion and proper absorption of essential nutrients.
  • Maintaining a healthy gut flora.Synthesizes vitamin K in the gut, which is important for the body’s coagulation factors.
  • Protects against harmful bacteria and neutralizes the toxins.
  • Reduces gas and bloating discomfort.
  • Improves diarrhea and constipation.
  • Prevents antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). Protects premature babies from gut diseases.
  • Helps to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  • Improves lactose intolerance. 

Different Strains of Probiotic Bacteria: 

They all have different benefits, but most of the benefits come from two strains, which are:

Lactobacillus: Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most commonly used probiotic.

Bifidobacterium: Bifidobacterium longum is one of the first strains to materialize in a baby’s gastrointestinal tract. Probiotics are naturally occurring gut microbes, but multiple factors including stress, antibiotics, and environmental toxins, can affect the natural flora. This just means that we cannot take them for granted as their balance can easily be disrupted. 

That is why it is so important to get as many of these good guys into our system as we can. Probiotics are obtainable naturally through diet or by taking supplements. There is no research available that says which of the two is a better choice. We also have no information regarding what quantities of probiotics can reap maximum benefits. Lack of evidence stating efficacy and safety of supplements makes probiotics from natural sources a healthier bet. 

Natural Sources of Probiotics in Diet:

Yogurt: Yogurt is made from milk fermented with lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. It is a good source of probiotics. However, when buying yogurt, always make sure to look for live active cultures, as some of them have killed bacteria through pasteurization.

Kefir: Kefir is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains, which are cultures of lactic acid bacteria and yeast. It is a better source of probiotics than yogurt, and people with lactose intolerance can often eat kefir with no problems.

Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is finely shredded cabbage that has been fermented by lactic acid bacteria. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Kimchi and Tempeh: These are fermented dishes containing lactobacillus.Natto: Natto is fermented soybean product, like tempeh and miso. It contains a bacterial strain called Bacillus subtilis. It contains a high amount of vitamin K2, which may help prevent osteoporosis and heart attacks.

Sourdough Bread: Sourdough Bread is made with sourdough starter, which functions like yeast and contains plenty of lactobacilli. It also has low glycemic index and does not spike up blood sugar levels.