What Are Probiotics & Do You Really Need Them?

­­­­ Suddenly, almost everyone is talking about gut health. ever questioned why it has become hype? Or when you visit a doctor with bloating, constipation, or other gut issues, why does he tell you to have yoghurt, or other probiotic foods? Probiotics have become a health buzzword, but are they real health essentials? If yes, then how does your gut naturally react to these? In this blog, you will uncover answers to all these questions, so keep reading and discover.

 What are probiotics do you really need them?

 Our body is home of trillions of bacteria, and many of them are actually good for us. Probiotics are naturally those good and healthy bacteria that live in the body and naturally balance gut environment, support digestion, immunity and even help in producing essential vitamins and minerals. Some of the very popular probiotic strains include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium—often found in yogurt, curd, and fermented foods. They play crucial role in breakdown of food, fight off harmful bacteria, and keep the digestive system running smoothly. They are small but powerful so it’s important we acknowledge that not all bacteria are bad for gut health.

How do probiotics work in the body?

Our gut has an ecosystem known as gut microbiome for fungi, bacteria and viruses that live inside digestive system. Don’t worry most of them are not harmful they rather help in:

·         Digestion of food

·         Making vitamins

·         Protecting against infections

·         Supporting immune system

·         And most common influencing mood and energy

 So don’t you think it’s our duty to protect this mini ecosystem of the body?

When we are stressed or on poor diet our gut flora gets disturbed and that’s when these come into action helping us from smoother digestion to better nutrient absorption and easing problems like bloating gas or constipation.

 Listed below are the most common sources of probiotic foods because its not always necessary to take a supplement:

·         Curd(dahi) and Yoghurt - A staple in Indian homes

·         Fermented foods like - Like idli, dosa batter, achar (pickles), buttermilk (chaas)

 These are gentle on your stomach. If you experience;

·         Frequent bloating

·         Constipation or diarrhea

·         Feel fatigued throughout the day 

·         You are low immunity or often fall sick,

·         Have skin problems due to increased inflammation in the body.

·         Then Restoring can be done with the help of these foods.

You now know what to eat.

 

 

Probiotics vs. Prebiotics: What’s the Difference?

 A lot of people confuse probiotics with prebiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria that improve digestion, and balance gut and prebiotics are the non-digestible fiber that help bacteria thrive in your gut, acquired from common sources like garlic, oats, bananas, and other whole grains.

 And you need both of these (prebiotics and probiotics) to maintain a healthy gut microbiome and overall wellness.

CONCLUSION

 Probiotics won’t work overnight, to get the best out of them pair with a balanced, nutritious and fiber rich diet, plenty of water, cut down on processed and sugary foods and go for a low stress lifestyle. If you’re healthy, have a balanced diet, and regularly eat probiotic-rich foods like curd, fermented pickles, and buttermilk, that may be enough to keep your gut happy. But there is also no harm in consuming any gut-supportive supplement if you feel like you experience chronic gut bloating and constipation for regular support. So make sure you are staying healthy as you make the right choice about your health.