Probiotics. What is all the hype? Up until a couple of years ago I naively thought they were only beneficial for yeast infections and maintaining feminine health. Recent research has shown their benefits for everything from gut health, immune response, and weight loss.
What are Probiotics?
According to WebMD “Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. We usually think of bacteria as something that causes diseases. But your body is full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are often called “good” or “helpful” bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy.”
How do Probiotics improve your immune system?
Recent research has shown that probiotics may be beneficial for immune response. We develop immunities by being exposed to a foreign substance. For example, if there is a bad flu going around once you are exposed to it your body works hard to protect itself and develops immunity against it. According to a 2011 PubMed article, Bacteria in your intestines plays a major role in maintaining intestinal balance and inducing protective responses. Therefore, changing the microbiota in your intestines is a potential alternative approach for improving immunities and preventing or treating diseases.
Does it work?
I recently got the opportunity to try Love Bug probiotics. They sent me three different kinds, one for weight loss, one for preventing colds, and one for preventing and treating yeast infections. Since I work in healthcare and have a toddler starting preschool this week, I decided to try ‘Colds Suck’ for two weeks and see if it made a difference at this vulnerable time of year. I am happy to report I haven’t been sick yet.I did feel a cold coming on last week but taking four tablets a day helped me stay healthy and fight it off. The ‘Colds suck’ blend provides 10 billion CFU of probiotics, 500 mg of Vitamin C, 15 mg of zinc, and 250 mg of Echinacea, all known to help boost immune support. Needless to say, I am a believer!
Are they for you?
Always check with your healthcare provider regarding personal supplement recommendations. Probiotics are generally safe, but some people may respond negatively to their use. Probiotics can be used for people of all ages, including children and the elderly. You can find probiotics naturally in yogurt and fermented foods, but supplementation often provides much higher levels and additional support when your diet may be lacking.
You can purchase LoveBug probiotics at https://www.lovebugprobiotics.com/. Check our their website for additional information! I was sent this product in exchange for an honest review; no compensation was provided.
References
“What are Probiotics? (2017). Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/what-are-probiotics#1
Yan, F., & Polk, D. B. (2011). Probiotics and immune health. Current Opinion in Gastroenterology, 27(6), 496–501. http://doi.org/10.1097/MOG.0b013e32834baa4d