What are probiotics? Probiotics are live microorganisms (like bacteria and yeast) that live in our intestines and help keep us healthy. You can boost the amount of probiotics in your gut by ingesting them through outside sources such as dairy products like yogurt and dietary supplements. When most people hear “bacteria”, they think of germs or bad organisms, but believe it or not, your intestinal tract contains good bacteria or “flora” that help to aid with proper digestion. When those flora are destroyed by disease, poor diet, or other things, your intestines have a hard time doing their job and health issues occur. Keeping a healthy gut is very important to your overall health.
What are the benefits of taking probiotics?
- Boost immune system
- Helps with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and colitis
- Helps with diarrhea and constipation
- Helps with digestion
- Eases stomachaches
- Improves overall gut health after taking antibiotics
- Prevents and can even treat UTIs (urinary tract infections)
- Can help to prevent and manage eczema in children
- Can help to improve acne
- Fights anxiety and depression
- Can reduce cold and flu symptoms
What can reduce or kill probiotics in your gut?
- Prescription antibiotics
- GMO (genetically modified organism) foods
- Sugar
- Grains
- Emotional stress
Taking probiotics following a round of prescription antibiotics can help improve digestion and regularity by rebuilding the natural flora that were killed off by the antibiotics. Consider the consequences before taking antibiotics…many physicians will prescribe them unnecessarily. For example, if you take your child to the medical doctor for an ear infection and they offer up antibiotics, don’t take them! Studies show that antibiotics have no effect on ear infections. Also, if you are diagnosed with a viral bug like the flu, antibiotics will not help! You know what will help…seeing your chiropractor! While chiropractic does not cure any diseases, it will boost your immune system so your body can heal itself! How cool is that?!?!?