up&up : Probiotics

Probiotic vitamins

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are often referred to as good bacteria because they can help to maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut, which can improve digestive health, boost the immune system, and even support mental health. They are found in various forms such as capsules, powders, as well as fermented foods, like yogurt or kimchi.

Probiotics are believed to have various health benefits. Some of the possible health benefits of probiotics may include:

- Supporting the immune system: Probiotics can help to strengthen the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. It helps reduce the risk of infections and other illnesses

- Improved digestive health: Probiotics can help to improve digestion by breaking down food and absorbing nutrients more efficiently. It also helps reduce symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

- Helps improve heart health: Probiotics may help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure, both of which are risk factors for heart disease

- Improves mental health: Some studies have shown that probiotics can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

The health benefits of probiotics can vary depending on the strain and dosage of the probiotic consumed, as well as individual factors such as diet and overall health. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before you take any probiotic supplements to determine which type and how much is appropriate for you.

How do probiotics work?

Probiotics work by introducing beneficial microorganisms into the gut. The gut microbiome helps with digestion, immune function, and overall health.

- Probiotics can compete with harmful microorganisms for space and nutrients in the gut, helping to reduce their numbers and prevent them from causing infections or other health issues

- Probiotics can produce beneficial compounds such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins, which can help to create an environment that is hostile to harmful microorganisms

- Probiotics can support the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells and other immune cells, which help to fight off infections

- Probiotics can help to improve digestion by breaking down food and absorbing nutrients more efficiently

- Probiotics can help to promote a healthy gut barrier by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria that line the gut wall, which helps to prevent harmful substances from entering the bloodstream

- Probiotics can help maintain vaginal health by restoring the balance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiome

What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics?

Prebiotics and probiotics are both important for gut health, but they are different substances with different functions.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are believed to offer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. Probiotics can be found in foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, as well as in dietary supplements.

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that is not digestible by the human body but can be fermented by bacteria in the gut. Prebiotic fibers can be found in foods like onions, garlic, bananas, and asparagus, as well as in dietary supplements.

What is a Probiotic CFU?

CFU stands for "colony forming unit" and it is a measure of the number of live and active microorganisms in a probiotic product. This number is usually expressed in millions or billions, and it indicates how many viable bacteria are present in each dose of a probiotic supplement. The higher the CFU, the more live bacteria are present in the product.

The CFU count does not necessarily indicate the effectiveness of a probiotic product. The specific strains of bacteria and their ability to survive in the gut are also important factors to consider.

Browse through a large range of probiotics to find the perfect one for you.