Gut health is extremely important for our overall well-being. In order to have a healthy gut, we need good bacteria. There are many factors that can disrupt the bodies good bacteria. This can be done by an alteration in the stomach pH, diet and even medication.
Probiotics can be beneficial in assisting with creating good microflora within our stomach. This good bacteria (probiotic) can be made from undigested carbohydrates and proteins within the body and also when consumed from certain foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, ect.
It’s important to understand that when consuming probiotics, the main goal is to get it to pass through the GI tract and into the colon. Research has shown that probiotics that are consumed from food end up being digested and do not make it to the colon. Thus making it difficult to improve the microflora of the stomach. The best way to ensure that the good bacteria does make it to the large intestine, is to have the probiotic encapsulated. Please understand that I am not saying that the yogurt you consume or the kombucha you drink aren’t helping, they are. I myself am a firm believer in kombucha and drink it to sooth an unsettled tummy, but that is different than assisting in creating good bacteria which is not done in the stomach, but in the colon.
If you are struggling with digestive issues or a poor immune system, probiotics are an excellent supplement to keep on hand. There especially beneficial in assisting with GI disease such as IBS, diarrhea, colon cancer, diverticulitis, ect. It is also beneficial for someone taking an over the counter or prescription medication. Did you know that it can take up to a year for your stomach to repair its microflora from antibiotics? Crazy huh?
Does this make you want to give your belly a little TLC? Many of us are not aware that if we obtain too much bad bacteria in the small intestine it can also cause a deficiency in B12, Iron and B1. This is when you begin to feel sluggish, have brain fog, and in severe cases, nerve damage. We want GOOD bacteria to help take over the bad. We also need it to help excrete toxic substance and it even help enhance fecal bulk. All of which help sooth an achy, bloated belly.
How do you know if your getting a good product? I look for a probiotic that is in a capsule form. I try to find one that has as many strands as possible for all areas of the belly, not just the lactobacillus. When it comes to my family and clients at Total Body Wellness and NC, I have had great success with Pure Probiotics by RBC Life, a local company in my area.
So next time you are taking medication, fighting an illness, struggling with a particular food you may have eaten, consider a probiotic. If you have any questions or are interested in purchasing Pure Probiotics message me. Refer to this blog and receive 15% off your first order. Make your tummy happy.