Probiotics: Trust Your Gut

We typically associate bacteria with being harmful, but some types of bacteria can improve our health. Our bodies are full of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for your health.

Where do you get probiotics?
Probiotics are found in different forms -- food and dietary supplements, and in some non-edible forms such as skin creams. Foods containing probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, kimchi, miso and kombucha.

What are the benefits of probiotics?
Illness, medications and poor diet can lead to elevated levels of bad bacteria. Probiotics restore the natural balance of good and bad gut bacteria. Although evidence is not currently strong, research suggests that other benefits of probiotics include reducing or preventing diarrhea, improving brain health, improving heart health and boosting the immune system.

How to buy a good probiotic
High CFU Count: The higher the number of Colony-Forming Units (CFUs) the greater the impact on the growth of good bacteria in our gut. Look for a supplement with a minimum of 40 billion CFUs.

Multiple Strains: Some probiotics only provide one type of bacteria, but the benefits are more substantial when multiple types of bacteria are in the supplement. Look for a supplement with at least nine individual strains of bacteria.

Substrains: Some probiotics don’t list the substrains, which could mean they are using generic strains that have not been clinically studied. Look for supplements that have trademarked (™) the substrains.

Bottom Line: Replenish your healthy gut bacteria by incorporating dietary sources of probiotics into your diet. Consult your healthcare team before taking a probiotic supplement and use the guidelines above to help purchase a strong, reliable product.

Written by: Kayla Arouchon, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern

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