What are Probiotics?
Probiotics include living bacteria and yeasts that aid digestion and overall health. Foods like yoghurt and cottage cheese contain probiotics. Read this microblog to learn more!
Definition of Probiotics
Probiotics, also called good bacteria, are live microorganisms (bacteria and yeasts) that live in our bodies and support our body's function.
Our body contains both good bacteria ( probiotics) and bad bacteria (germs). Bad bacteria may cause infections and harm health. Probiotics help control these bad bacteria and improve health.
When we consume foods rich in probiotics, the amount of good bacteria in our body increases, making it easier to control germs.
What are the functions of Probiotics?
Probiotics improve digestive health and relieve diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and irritable bowel syndrome.
Probiotics benefit skin, urinary, and vaginal health. They can also help improve oral health and prevent colds and allergies.
What are the types of Probiotics?
There are many types of probiotics, but the three main types are :
⦁ Lactobacillus:
These probiotic produces the lactase enzyme, which breaks down lactose sugar. Also, it produces lactic acid, which controls bad bacteria. Lactobacillus helps mineral absorption in the body and is naturally found in mouth, small intestine, and vagina.
⦁ Bifidobacteria:
These are present in some dairy products. Bifidobacteria improve immunity and control bad bacteria in the intestine.
⦁ Saccharomyces boulardii:
These probiotics are yeast-based and are beneficial for digestion.
Reasons and symptoms of Probiotics Deficiency?
Not consuming foods with probiotics, antibiotics, and an unhealthy diet can lessen the probiotics ( good bacteria) in the body.
Probiotic deficiency can cause the following symptoms.
⦁ Improper digestion
⦁ Gas, Bloating, and Constipation
⦁ Acid reflux and heartburn.
⦁ Low sleep quality
⦁ Memory Loss
⦁ Stress, anxiety, and depression
Foods containing Probiotics
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics. The following are the food sources of probiotics.
⦁ Yogurt
⦁ Kefir
⦁ Sauerkraut
⦁ Kimchi
⦁ Tempeh
⦁ Kombucha
⦁ Pickles
⦁ Buttermilk
⦁ Natto
⦁ Swiss, Gouda, and Cheddar Cheese
