Probiotics: Explained

Who wants live bacteria and yeasts in their bodies??? We all do.

There are good and bad bacteria, probiotics provide the good ones and help keep our gut healthy.

Lactobacillus is the most common probiotic, followed by Bifidobacterium and Saccharomyces boulardii is a form of beneficial yeast.

Probiotics help with both Irritable Bowel Syndrome, IBS and Irritable Bowel Disease, IBD, (Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis). They also help soothe acid reflux/heartburn sensations.

Probiotics may help boost the Immune System, and provide relief from vaginal infections, diarrhoea and eczema.

My favourite benefit of probiotics however is to do with brain health: They help boost your mood, and cognitive function, act as anti-depressants and importantly, help with insomnia.

Food sources include: fermented foods, yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso and let’s not forget my favourite: pickles ( I pickle cucumbers every few weeks).

Do not take probiotic supplements continuously as they will make your body lazy and start to rely on them too much. Take them for 4 weeks, then give them a break for a few good weeks.

Initially, Probiotics may cause gas, bloating, constipation, thirst or even headaches.. these will disappear after a few days.

For all the above benefits the winner supplement is @hyperbiotics Pro15 which every patient of mine swears by.