Courtesy Photo | In recent years, probiotics have gained significant attention for their potential...... read more read more
Written By Capt. Lydia Hudson, Registered Dietitian, Womack Army Medical Center
FORT LIBERTY, NC --In recent years, probiotics have gained significant attention for their potential health benefits. Marketed as a remedy for various ailments, from digestive issues to immune system support, the popularity of probiotics has soared. But amid the hype, many questions remain: Are probiotics truly beneficial, and should everyone be taking them?
What are probiotics and what do they do?
The GI tract contains both beneficial and harmful bacteria. It is important to establish a healthy balance between the two. Probiotics are live microorganisms, often referred to as “good” bacteria. To be considered a probiotic, an organism must be able to be isolated from humans, survive inside the intestine, and be safe for human consumption. Emerging research suggests that maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria is essential for overall well-being. Probiotics are also naturally found in certain fermented foods, such yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, and kombucha.
Should you take a probiotic supplement?
Often, probiotics are used as a way to improve gut health. A healthy gut microbiome can enhance your overall immune function, minimize inflammation, and maintain regular bowel movements. Factors such as stress and poor food choices can deplete your gut microbiome, and probiotics offer a means to replenish and restore gut health. Probiotics are often recommended after a round of antibiotics are prescribed. Like dietary supplements, probiotics available over the counter are not subject to FDA regulation. Consequently, these supplements are not required to adhere to dosage or purity standards. As a result, probiotic supplements might lack live bacteria or contain strains that cannot withstand the harsh conditions of the GI tract. Opting for a nutritious, fiber-rich diet with a variety of foods is among the most effective method to bolster gut health and cultivate the beneficial bacteria residing in the GI tract. However, if a probiotic supplement is needed, here are a few general recommendations to improve the odds of selecting a solid product:
- Look for Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, or Saccharomyces boulardii strains of bacteria
- One dose should provide at least 1 billion colony forming units (CFU)
- Look for a supplement that has been third-party tested
Be sure to follow the dosing and storage recommendations. Some probiotic supplements will need to be refrigerated to keep the bacteria alive. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
While probiotics hold promise for improving digestive health, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you should take a probiotic depends on various factors, including your health goals, existing health conditions, and individual response to probiotic supplementation. Ultimately, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods is key to nurturing a healthy gut microbiome, with probiotics serving as a potential complement to overall wellness.
March is National Nutrition Month! If you are interested in learning more about nutrition and how you can maintain a healthy lifestyle, contact the Outpatient Nutrition Clinic at Womack Army Medical Center at 910-907-3438 to schedule an appointment or ask about available resources.
References:
How to pick the best probiotic for you. Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials website. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-pick-the-best-probiotic-for-you/. Updated November 9, 2018. Accessed February 6, 2024.
Probiotics. Cleveland Clinic website. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14598-probiotics. Updated March 9, 2020. Accessed February 6, 2024.
Lee, C. Should you take a daily probiotic?: Dietitians On Demand Blog. https://dietitiansondemand.com/should-you-take-a-daily-probiotic/. Updated May 22, 2023. Accessed February 6, 2024.
| Date Taken: | 03.01.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 03.01.2024 14:28 |
| Story ID: | 465037 |
| Location: | FORT LIBERTY, NC, US |
| Web Views: | 88 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Should you take Probiotics? Debunking the myths and understanding the benefits, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
No keywords found.
LEAVE A COMMENT