Probiotics—Healthy Bacteria



In recent years, probiotics have been touted for their health advantages, from digestive to mental. Probiotics are crucial, but what are they? This article covers probiotics' history, types, benefits, and sources.


Probiotic History

Probiotics have been used for thousands of years in fermented foods. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed fermented milk could heal, and 19th-century Russian scientist Elie Metchnikoff believed live bacteria could fight disease. "Probiotics" wasn't coined till the 20th century.


Russian scientist Ilya Metchnikoff proposed ingesting live microorganisms to boost health in 1907. Beneficial microorganisms in fermented milk helped Bulgarians live longer, according to Metchnikoff. His study led to modern probiotics.


Probiotics Work

Probiotics are live microorganisms that resemble stomach "good" bacteria. They colonise the digestive tract and block pathogenic bacteria, improving gut health. Antibiotics can alter this balance, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhoea.


Probiotics promote mental, skin, and immunological health. Their gut microbiota modulation does this. A healthy gut microbiome can improve mood, skin, and weight.


Probiotic Types

Many probiotics have different benefits. Common types are:


Lactobacillus: The most common probiotic found in yoghurt and kefir. It aids digestion and immunity.


Bifidobacterium: This large intestine probiotic boosts immunity and digestive health.


Saccharomyces boulardii: This yeast-based probiotic can treat diarrhoea and IBS.


Streptococcus thermophilus: This dairy probiotic aids lactose digestion.


Probiotic Benefits

Probiotics boost intestinal health, mental wellness, and more. Probiotics' main benefits include:


Gut Health Probiotics

Probiotics are famous for improving intestinal health. They aid


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