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What are the health benefits of taking probiotics?



Bacteria are a bigger part of our lives and bodies than we would imagine. About 100 trillion microorganisms are found in a normal and healthy bowel. Most of them are helpful, being essential for digestion, fighting against harmful bacteria or contributing to immune function.
Probiotics are live bacteria which live in the digestive system and keep it healthy. They can also be found in foods and supplements. The word “probiotics” comes from the Greek language, meaning “for life”, referring to the supporting role these bacteria have for the digestive system’s health.
The World Health Organization defines probiotics as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host.”
How do probiotics help our health?
Most frequently reported benefits of probiotics include:
  • improve intestinal health
  • treat irritable bowel syndrome
  • help treating inflammatory bowel disease
  • ameliorate symptoms of lactose intolerance
  • help handling cases of diarrhea caused by antibiotics treatments
  • support treatment of certain intestinal infections (most common of which is caused by rotavirus), reducing the duration of diarrhea
  • protect children against food allergies and atopic dermatitis
Other possible health benefits of probiotics, which require more research and evidence, are:
  • decrease cancer incidence
  • prevent coronary heart disease
  • prevent and treat vaginal and urinary tract infections
Benefits of probiotics go beyond physical health though, as gut microbiota is linked to brain function.
A study made in Netherlands in 2015 showed that a probiotic supplement taken for a period of four weeks decreased depression sensitivity, improving mood and helping people to deal better with sad emotions.
In 2016, Health Canada, the agency that approves the use of foods in Canada, declared that a particular probiotic product helps manage anxiety and mood, also reducing stress-related gastrointestinal problems such as abdominal pain and nausea.
There are many types of bacteria classified as probiotics, each with different benefits, but most probiotics come from two groups:
Lactobacillus -it is found in yogurt and other fermented foods and can help with diarrhea and with lactose intolerance.
Bifidobacterium - also found in some dairy products. It contributes to treating irritable bowel syndrome and other problems.
Side effects of probiotics are rare and most healthy people can include aliments that contain probiotics in their diet. Taking supplements of probiotics should be first discussed with the doctor, who can choose the right type of probiotics for you. Side effects of probiotics include bloating, diarrhea, upset stomach or allergic reactions. If these symptoms occur, stop taking the supplements and talk to a doctor. Supplements of probiotics are not recommended to people with immune system problems or severe health conditions.

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