Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Primarily found in dietary supplements, foods, and additives, these beneficial bugs are revolutionizing our understanding of health and wellness. While traditionally, probiotics were bacteria, they also encompass yeasts, molds, and even certain viruses called bacteriophages.
Common and well-researched probiotic strains include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium (both bacteria), and Saccharomyces boulardii (a yeast). These powerhouses work to optimize the gut microbiome, the complex ecosystem of microorganisms residing in your digestive tract.
The gut microbiome plays a vital role in nutrient absorption, immune system regulation, and neurotransmitter production. Probiotics influence this complex system in several ways.
Taking probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic-rich foods bolsters the population of beneficial microorganisms within the gut, offering substantial health advantages. These benefits directly support gut health by:
- Decreasing space for harmful, disease-causing microorganisms, known as pathogens, to grow.
- Promoting the secretion of substances that actively inhibit harmful microorganism growth.
- Training immune cells to accurately differentiate between harmful and beneficial microbes.
- Balancing neurotransmitter production, thereby influencing mood and cognitive function.
- Regulating the body’s energy breakdown, use, and storage processes.
- Strengthening the intestinal lining, preventing pathogens and harmful substances from crossing into the bloodstream.
- Enhancing mucous production in the gut, reinforcing the protective intestinal barrier.
Beyond the gut, probiotics are increasingly recognized for their beneficial effects on other parts of the body. With the growing awareness of the whole-body microbiome, scientists now understand the significant impact of probiotics on the skin, oral microbiome, and beyond. Topical probiotics, applied directly to the skin, are a testament to this expansion, targeting specific microorganism ecosystems with tailored benefits. As such, probiotics are now considered essential supplements for supporting overall health and wellbeing, moving beyond the digestive tract to offer benefits throughout the body.
