Facts Everyone Should Know About Probiotics And Gut Health

May Boost The Immune System

The truth is the gut microbiome affects every aspect of health, which only makes sense considering the bacteria cells in an individual’s gut outnumber their own cells by ten to one. In this sense, it is only obvious that probiotics may boost the immune system. The various gut bacteria are constantly competing with each other, and this is where probiotics can help by better regulating this bacterial balance. In turn, this provides a boost to the immune system by aiding the good bacteria in fighting off the bad. Still, it seems certain probiotic strains are better at certain things. For instance, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium bifidum may reduce the chances of getting the cold or flu, while there is some evidence to suggest Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG may help prevent pneumonia in ICU patients. This is another area in which much more research is needed, but the current evidence does seem to suggest certain strains of bacteria may either have immune-boosting properties or help the body fight off certain illnesses.