Improve Your Gut Health with Probiotics

I spent two weeks away from this blog and I am finally back. School is back in session for us and I am my daughter’s teacher. It’s a challenging task, but very rewarding. I am back and ready to roll.

Today’s topic is about probiotics. I learned about the importance of taking a probiotic from Carolyn Akens when I  spring detoxed with her.

I noticed a decrease in belly size, less flatulence and better regularity. I will always have a probiotic supplement in my stash.

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that support the bacteria that is already present in the intestines. These bacteria are “good bacteria” that help with the health of the gut flora.

Quotes from Super Healing written by Elaine Ferguson, MD

• “Research has revealed that particular probiotic strains can reduce the level of gastrointestinal symptoms caused by stress.” (page 143)

• “Gut health is an important aspect of the immune system, where invading microorganisms (like dangerous bacteria, yeasts, fungi and viruses) are destroyed. If the population of microorganisms that live in your gut becomes unbalanced, or your immune response is underactive, you will respond as though you were being poisoned and your health can really suffer. That’s what a dramatic change in my intestinal flora did to me.” (page 143)

Quote from Grain Brain written by David Perlmutter, MD

“They (probiotics) play a role in producing, absorbing, and transporting neurochemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and nerve growth factor, which are essential for healthy brain and nerve function.” (page 190)

Supplements or Fermented Foods?

You are probably wondering which is best?  Supplements or fermented foods.  Both are good for you, but taking a probiotic supplement is your best bet.

You can take a supplement that has a variety of strains, which is a good for your gut. Make sure your supplement has at least ten billion active bacteria per capsule (Dr. Perlmutter).

Fermented foods are good too and you should include them in your diet. Make sure you read the ingredient labels on all fermented foods before buying. The last thing you want is a fermented food that has ingredients, that you are trying to avoid.

Probiotic Supplements

There are many probiotic supplements on the market and prices vary. You have to make sure that you buy a supplement that has at least ten billion active bacteria.

I personally rotate between two different brands, Nutrition Now PB 8 Pro-Biotic Acidophilus For Life and Renew Life Ultimate Flora Adult Formula. Both brands have over ten billion active bacteria, but one costs a little more than the other.

I buy Ultimate Flora, when I have the extra money and don’t mind splurging. When I don’t have extra money, I buy PB 8.  Most of the time, I buy PB 8 and it works well.

Final Words

A healthy gut helps with your overall health. When your gut is healthy you feel good in your mind, body and spirit.

Give probiotics a try and see how they work for you. I believe that once you start taking probiotics and eating fermented foods regularly they will be a mainstay in your diet.

Discussion:  Do you take probiotics and what changes have you noticed? Do share.

Image courtesy Ambro at FreedDigitalPhotos.net