Benefits of Probiotics

After Fraser, was on antibiotics for an ear infection this month we made sure to give him probiotics to re-establish his good gut flora.  You might already know that while Antibiotics are taking out the bad guys, they can also do a number on the good guys - the beneficial bacteria in your digestive tract. This can cause several side effects and allow in other bad bacteria in such as the common cold or flu.

We have 10 times the number of bacterial cells inside of us as there are human cells and most are in the gut! Gut bacteria greatly affects both overall and physical health. Maintaining a healthy balance between good vs. bad bacteria is essential for sustaining a healthful life. One way to achieve this is through probiotics via food or supplementation. Probiotics are live bacteria that help keep a natural balance of microflora in the human digestive tract. Containing more than 5oo different types, which of the hundreds of available probiotics is best for the average healthy person is still unknown. 

Cultured or fermented foods contain various types and amounts of beneficial bacteria, including buttermilk, cheese, kefir, miso, sauerkraut, tempeh, yogurt and kombucha.

If you don’t enjoy the ‘zingy’ flavour accompanied by most of these foods once fermented then drinking Shakeology daily which includes both Pre and Probiotics or supplementing with the right probiotic may be the answer.

Good bacteria in the form of probiotics can challenge the immune system in healthy ways. Introducing pathogenic organisms will provoke the immune system to fight back and become resistant, helping to prevent the development of autoimmune and allergic diseases. They can help relieve and are used in treating many gastrointestinal disorders and disease such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and are also used in handling many food sensitivities. Healthy gut flora can also help prevent cancer by nourishing enzymes that inhibit tumour production throughout the body. While studies have shown many health benefits of probiotics, one should always consult his/her health care practitioner before beginning to take probiotics in order to eliminate any potential risks.

The better we take care of our gut, the better it will take care of us!

I don't know about you but I love that Shakeology takes care of this for me.  When we went to the health food store and purchased a small container of probiotics for Fraser I was suprised at how expensive it was.  Over $20 for a small container.  It is certainly worth the investment however it's nice knowing that it is one less thing I have to think about for Gord and I each day.