Gut health refers to the balance and function of our gastrointestinal system, which includes the stomach, small intestine, and colon.
Gut health is essential for overall well-being. Everything that is you, has come from the food you eat. Your gut plays a role in digestion, nutrient absorption, metabolism, and even the regulation of the immune system.
A healthy gut microbiome, which often consists of trillions of microorganisms, is linked to a longer and healthier life.
Most of our gut microbiome is made up of bacteria but also includes viruses, fungi, and archaea.
This diverse microbial community helps our body break down dietary fiber, produce vitamins (e.g., B vitamins and vitamin K), and protect against harmful pathogens.
So where do probiotics come in?
Probiotics are living microorganisms (typically bacteria or yeasts). There are various probiotic strains with varying benefits. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus is known for its digestive benefits, while Bifidobacterium bifidum may support immune function.
Probiotics can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, and in the form of supplements.
Probiotics support digestive health by maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, and helping your body in the digestion of complex carbohydrates.
There is also a connection between the gut and the brain. Studies have shown that probiotics may have a positive impact on mood and cognitive function.
Probiotics can also reduce inflammation in the body, which is a risk factor for chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Interestingly, some studies even show that individuals with a more diverse gut microbiome tend to live longer!
So now that we know a bit about Probiotics, what are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers found in certain foods that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. They can promote the growth and activity of these bacteria by providing a source of nutrition. Foods high in prebiotics, such as garlic, onions, chicory root, and whole grains, are excellent to include in your diet.
One of the biggest changes I have made in my life is including more whole grains, fibre, high-quality Turmeric with Bioperine (more on that later), and prebiotics. This completely changed my mood and elevated my energy levels. You may have read my other articles - I was completely dependent on fast food at one point in my life, and let me tell you, it was obvious.
I was sluggish, tired, and unmotivated. My body was clearly unhappy with what I was feeding it, but it wasn’t obvious to me until I felt what a healthy diet could do to my body.
I made a change over the course of 3 months, reducing my fast food intake and increasing the number of home-cooked meals I ate each week.
Over this time, I found my bowels were less unhappy with me. I was less bloated, and more, well… regular.
I also found my workouts were more productive. I was running longer, and feeling better! Not only that, but my friends could tell I was more myself, which was a huge motivation.
All this to say, it’s crucial to pay close attention to what you put into your body.
You can also get prebiotics in supplement form, but I always recommend changing your diet first. You need a good foundation of food choices before you start to supplement with extras. They’re meant to be an addition to a healthy diet, NOT replace it!
Turmeric, Probiotics and Prebiotics work together in a symbiotic relationship, where prebiotics support the growth and survival of probiotics, and Turmeric ties all the benefits together.
So what can we do to strengthen our gut microbiome?
Eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables can promote a diverse and healthy gut microbiome.
Do some regular physical activity. This can positively influence gut health by promoting microbial diversity.
Take a Pro- and Pre-biotic supplement
Choosing the Right Probiotic Supplements:
Selecting the right probiotic supplement can be a crucial decision for those looking to improve their gut health. Here's guidance on how to choose the most suitable probiotic supplement:
1. Identify Your Specific Health Goals:
Why do you want to take a probiotic supplement? Are you looking to alleviate digestive issues, boost your immune system, or address a specific health concern? Different strains and formulations cater to various health goals.
2. Choose the Right Strain(s):
Not all probiotics are the same. Each strain can have unique properties and benefits. Here are some common strains and their associated benefits:
Lactobacillus acidophilus: Supports digestive health, helps with lactose intolerance, and may boost the immune system.
Bifidobacterium bifidum: Aids in digestion and may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Lactobacillus rhamnosus: Known for its role in promoting gut health and supporting the immune system.
Saccharomyces boulardii: Helpful for treating diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
3. Check the Colony-Forming Units (CFUs):
CFUs tell you the number of viable bacteria in each dose. Higher CFU counts do not always mean better quality, but they can be important. Here's a couple of things to consider:
For general health maintenance, a supplement with 1-10 billion CFUs per serving is usually sufficient.
For specific health concerns or after a course of antibiotics, a higher CFU count (e.g., 10-50 billion CFUs) might be more appropriate.
Keep in mind that some probiotics, like Saccharomyces boulardii, may have lower CFU counts but still offer benefits.
4. Check Shelf Stability and Expiry Date:
Ensure that the supplement has a clearly marked expiration date. Probiotic bacteria are live organisms, and their potency decreases over time. A supplement with a longer shelf life is often better. You should also look for packaging that protects the probiotics from moisture, light, and temperature fluctuations. Many probiotics require refrigeration to maintain their viability, so check the label for storage instructions.
Finally, if you’re ever confused, ask your pharmacist or doctor. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your medical history, and help you pick the supplement that’s best for you!
I recommend that when you start taking a new probiotic supplement, begin with a lower dose and gradually increase it over a few days to allow your body to adjust.
Keep a note of any changes in your health, digestion, or symptoms to determine whether the specific probiotic strain and formulation are working for you.
There are tons of benefits to taking pre- and pro-biotics for our overall health. The bacteria in our gut are just as much a part of us, so it’s time we take care of them, too. Prioritize your gut health this new year by making more informed dietary and lifestyle choices.
One easy way to improve your gut health instead of pro- or pre-biotics is by using a high-quality Turmeric supplement with black pepper extract for improved absorption. My patients and I trust the quality and purity of Science Natural Supplements Turmeric with Bioperine.
My patients have experienced how important this simple supplement is for gut health.
Turmeric, with its potent anti-inflammatory properties, not only complements the symbiotic relationship between probiotics and prebiotics but also contributes to overall digestive well-being. The BioPerine makes sure that all the Turmeric you take gets into your body so you can experience the benefits.
Turmeric also helps digest and absorb fats and can reduce symptoms such as bloating and gas. All of this together improves your energy, and mood, and can give you that skin glow you’ve been missing for so long!
Click here to discover the powerful combination of turmeric, probiotics, and prebiotics, and see how you can transform your gut health.
You and your gut deserve the best, so don’t settle when choosing your lifestyle supplements. See why thousands have chosen to trust SNS Turmeric with BioPerine.
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