Probiotics

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are defined as those microorganisms which, when they enter the human body, improve its intestinal microbial flora, exercising a multitude of actions in the body.

Some of the most beneficial probiotic microorganisms are:

• Lactobacilli: acidophilus, casei, reuteri, brevis, plantarum, rhamnosus,
• the bifidobacteria: bifidum, animalis, infantis, longum, thermophilum
• and the yeasts Saccharomyces boulardii and cerevisiae.

Prebiotics are undigested food components, which when they enter the human body increase the growth and activity of probiotics in the gut. In simpler words, they are the "food" of probiotics.

Fructo- and galacto-oligosaccharides, inulin, lactulose and lactitol are the most important of these.

Probiotics: Properties and what helps

Probiotics, along with prebiotics, are known as symbiotics and contribute to conditions such as:

• Treatment of diarrhea and constipation
• Strengthening the immune system
• UTI prevention
• Improving psychology
• Improving the absorption of vitamins
• Management of irritable bowel symptoms

Furthermore, studies prove that they can contribute to oral health, weight loss (fluid retention), reduction of colic in infants, reduction of cholesterol and skin health (acne).

Probiotics: Foods and sources

Foods rich in probiotic microorganisms are:

• the yoghurt,
• kefir,
• the ariani
• the sauerkraut
• the olives
• the pea
• the pickles

When and how long should we take probiotics?

No recommended daily intake for probiotics and prebiotics has been established.

In some cases, such as chronic inflammation of the intestine or chronic gastrointestinal diseases, it is considered necessary to take them without interruption. Of course, in these cases the consent of the doctor is necessary.

What we recommend, in terms of how to take them and the dosage, is to follow the instructions of each company.

A general rule of thumb is to take probiotics early in the morning or before going to bed at night, on an empty stomach, away from hot drinks. In this way, the probiotics are protected from the acidic environment of the stomach and "travel" faster to the intestine.

Probiotics for children

In fact, probiotics can be seen as particularly beneficial for children's bodies. They are most often given to infants to treat colic which is particularly common during infancy.

Of course, they are commercially available in pleasant forms, such as:

• jellies
• drops
• sacchets

which make them more enjoyable to download.

Probiotics: Precautions, interactions and side effects

Due to their effect on the immune system, probiotics are recommended not to be taken by people with autoimmune diseases and by those who follow immunosuppressive treatment.

Diarrhea, bloating and flatulence may occur in case of overdose.

Liability Disclaimer

Vita4you informs you that nutritional supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle or medical advice/opinion, are not medicines and are not intended to prevent, treat or cure human disease.

Vita4you makes every effort to ensure the accuracy and scientific validity of the information provided on the website. In case you find any discrepancy or have any question about the content please contact us.