Most people know probiotics as the good form of bacteria found in the gut that can help to improve your overall health. They are advertised to help your digestive system first and foremost, but their benefits extend well beyond this solitary system. Experts also suggest that a healthy colony of gut bacteria can affect your mood and improve your immune system. Even though there are so many potential health benefits, some individuals still wonder if they should supplement probiotics to their daily diet.
Understanding the ins and outs of probiotic supplements can help you to make the decision that is right for your health and body.
Risks of Probiotic Supplements
We already know that the good bacteria contained in probiotic supplements could do wonders for our overall health. However, there is some risk to these supplements as well. These are not considered the same as medicines, so they will not be monitored by the Food and Drug Administration. While some of the supplements available on the shelves of the pharmacy might contain lots of helpful bacteria, this might not always be the case.
You might have some supplements that contain very little, if any, of the bacteria they claim to have. Others could have probiotics that are too strong for someone who has recently been sick. This could increase your chances of an infection or worsen any symptoms you might be having.
Keep in mind that there are several different types of probiotics that you can consume. Each bacterium has something to offer, but you may not be able to benefit from all of them. It’s best to do a little bit of research on what you hope to gain from your supplement, as well as which probiotic form will work best for you.
The best thing to do is to talk with your doctor before you begin taking a probiotic supplement. They can often recommend the best options for your dietary needs.
Probiotic-Friendly Diet
If you are concerned about purchasing one of the underqualified probiotics available on the market, you could make an effort to eat a diet laden with probiotics. Some of these foods can very easily be worked into your everyday diet. Look for items that say they have active cultures such as Greek yogurt or kefir. Alternatively, you might look for fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, or pickled vegetables.
This is also a great way to diversify the types of probiotics you consume. By eating foods across several of these groups, you will gain an excellent palette of options for the gut.
All of these foods can help you to improve the bacteria in your gut without worrying about the quality of your supplements. This is often the best route for most people who want to see if probiotics could help.
Are you interested in what probiotic supplements could do for you? Be sure to visit Imagine Wellness Centre, the best clinic for functional medicine. We can help you to make the necessary diet changes you need to start feeling better.
