The Power of Probiotics: What You Need to Know
Probiotics are friendly microorganisms that naturally reside in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and contribute to numerous health benefits. When the balance of these “good bacteria” is disrupted, it can lead to various health issues, including:
- Candida yeast infections
- Diarrhea
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Eczema and psoriasis
- Frequent illnesses
Probiotics for Children and Adults
Research has shown that a daily probiotic supplement can reduce children’s absences from daycare and upper respiratory infections by 17% (Source: NCBI). For both adults and children, antibiotics are a double-edged sword. They effectively kill harmful bacteria but also wipe out beneficial bacteria in the process. Supplementing with probiotics helps restore balance and improve GI health.
Types of Probiotics
There are many types of probiotics, and their origin plays a crucial role in their effectiveness. Probiotics can come from soil, dairy, or human strains. Ideally, you want bacterial strains that can populate and reproduce in the gut rather than simply pass through as transient visitors.
Research shows that human strains of probiotics are the most effective for long-term health benefits (Cleveland Clinic).
Is Yogurt the Best Source?
Advertisements often suggest that yogurt is the ultimate source of probiotics, but that’s not entirely true. While yogurt contains bacteria when initially produced, many brands undergo a heating process to extend shelf life, which kills the bacteria.
Look for These Labels:
- Seek out yogurt brands that display “active” or “living” culture labels on the container.
- Be cautious of brands like Yo-Plus and Activia that do not disclose the number of live organisms, as this information is often proprietary.
Additionally, most commercial yogurts contain 2-3 teaspoons of sugar per 4-ounce container, which can feed harmful gut bacteria.
Choosing the Right Probiotic Supplement
To get the full health benefits of probiotics, the proper strain and dosage are crucial. Clinical research suggests:
- Illness or Antibiotic Restoration: 20-25 billion organisms per day
- Maintenance: 3-5 billion organisms per day
High-quality supplements from reputable companies guarantee live organism potency and are often found refrigerated in health food stores or from some healthcare providers.
Final Thoughts
Probiotic supplementation can provide substantial health benefits for both adults and children. By choosing the right strains and dosages and being mindful of sources like yogurt and supplements, you can restore balance to your gut and support overall health. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
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Dr. Charles Campbell
📞 (281) 772-3451
🌐 www.campbellfunctionalmedicine.com
Serving Kingwood, Texas, and surrounding areas since 1993.
Now, we also serve patients in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and surrounding areas.