Probiotics: Beyond Digestive Health
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Want better skin, an improved mood, and help with weight management and fighting allergies in a single daily supplement? Well buckle up, because as it turns out, probiotics do all of the above!
Probiotics, which (understandably) do wonders for your digestive system, also do so much more. You see, the more we learn about gut health, the more we learn about how important a healthy microbiome is for your entire body!
So yes, while probiotics should ALWAYS be in your carry on bag for travel (especially if you’re going abroad and will be eating different types of food than you’re used to), it should be in your morning vitamin/supplement rotation as well.
And to show you why, let’s go through these 12 benefits that go beyond having a happier stomach.
1. Immune System Support.
The gut plays a critical role in supporting the immune system. A significant portion of our immune system is in the gut, and a healthy gut microbiome helps regulate immune function, protecting against infections and diseases.
More on the gut health link in how to fight a cold in 24 hours!
2. Inflammation Regulation.
Imbalances in the gut microbiome can lead to chronic inflammation, which is associated with a wide range of health issues, including autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. A healthy gut helps regulate inflammation, promoting overall well-being.
3. Weight Management.
Emerging research suggests that the composition of the gut microbiome may influence weight regulation and metabolism. A diverse and balanced gut microbiota is associated with a lower risk of obesity and metabolic syndrome.
4. Skin Health.
The connection between gut health and skin conditions is a burgeoning area of research. Probiotics may help alleviate skin issues such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis by promoting a balanced inflammatory response and supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms.
More on skin care (here) and skin health (here).
5. Nutrient Absorption.
Probiotics contribute to the breakdown of food in the digestive tract, aiding in the absorption of essential nutrients. This enhanced nutrient absorption can have a positive impact on overall health, supporting energy production, bone health, and various biochemical processes.
6. Reduced Allergy Symptoms.
Probiotics have been linked to a potential reduction in allergy symptoms. By modulating the immune response, these beneficial bacteria may help alleviate allergic reactions and sensitivities, providing relief for individuals prone to seasonal allergies or other allergic conditions.
7. Long-Term Health and Disease Prevention.
A healthy gut microbiome is associated with a reduced risk of various chronic diseases, including inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), colorectal cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
8. Enhanced Oral Health.
A healthy mouth is linked to ALL KINDS of health benefits. Probiotics may contribute to improved oral health by inhibiting the growth of inflammation and harmful bacteria associated with cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Some studies suggest that certain probiotic strains can even help combat specific oral infections.
9. Balanced Blood Sugar Levels.
Emerging research indicates a potential link between gut health and blood sugar regulation. Probiotics may play a role in maintaining balanced blood sugar levels, by, again, reducing inflammation, offering a unique avenue for individuals looking to support their metabolic health.
10. Reduction in Anxiety and Stress.
The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system connecting the gut and the brain. Probiotics may influence this axis, leading to a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and stress. The connection between gut health and mental well-being underscores the holistic benefits of probiotic supplementation.
11. Regulated Blood Pressure.
Some studies suggest that probiotics may contribute to the regulation of blood pressure. By promoting a balanced inflammatory response and supporting cardiovascular health, probiotics offer a potential complementary approach to managing blood pressure levels.
12. Faster Exercise Recovery.
Physical exertion can temporarily impact the balance of gut bacteria. Probiotics may aid in the recovery process by promoting a quicker restoration of the gut microbiome after intense exercise. This could potentially contribute to reduced muscle soreness and improved overall recovery.
Now that you know why a probiotic should be in your medicine cabinet and travel bag, you need to pick a good one. Because much like vitamins, some brands are better than others, so it’s important to pick a quality probiotic. I am a big fan of Culturelle®.
I tried it for the four reasons below, but the most important part is that it has made a noticeable improvement to how I feel when I travel for work (and thus have my regular nutrition and schedule thrown off). You can only do so many steak dinners with clients before you start to feel it, and Culturelle has helped offset that!
I like Culturelle® because of these four things too:
Clinically Proven Strains.
Culturelle® is distinguished by its use of the most clinically studied and proven probiotic strains†, particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG). LGG is one of the most extensively researched probiotic strains, with numerous studies supporting its effectiveness in promoting digestive health and immune system function.
Guaranteed Potency.
Unlike some probiotics, the number of live probiotics could be lower than marketed post-purchase. However, Culturelle® guarantees the full potency of its probiotics until the expiration date, providing consumers with confidence in the product's efficacy. This commitment to quality ensures that users receive the intended health benefits throughout the entire shelf life of the product.
Free from Allergens and Artificial Junk.
Culturelle® probiotics are free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and soy, making them suitable for individuals with various dietary restrictions. Additionally, the absence of artificial additives and preservatives aligns with your goal of not adding junky stuff into your system (that’s the very scientific way to say it).
No Refrigeration Required.
This makes Culturelle® the perfect probiotic to throw in your travel bag without worries that it won’t be totally effective throughout your trip! But it’s also great to add into your daily rotation if, like me, you tend to take vitamins at your desk at work after a morning workout. (I.e. they won’t go bad in your gym locker.)
Overall, prioritizing gut health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can have far-reaching benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
And the best supplement you can take to help support this gut health is a good probiotic (use code HHDT20 for 20% off your first order)!
As our understanding of the relationship between gut health and overall well-being develops, the unexpected benefits of probiotics continue to emerge. Beyond their well-known digestive advantages, these microscopic allies showcase a remarkable range of positive effects on various aspects of health, from skin and oral health to mental well-being and exercise recovery.
Adding some to your daily vitamin/supplement rotation will make a bigger difference than you might think!
* THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.
† Based on the number of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG clinical studies, as of January 2022.
