Probiotics help to restore the balance of ‘helpful bacteria’ in the intestines, and maintain a healthy gut. They may help combat bloating, gas and discomfort caused by overgrowth of yeasts or ‘harmful’ bacteria. They also produce special fatty acids that feed the cells lining the gut keeping them healthy, and boost our immune function. Most interesting, relating to the skin, they introduce healthy bacteria to the gut and create a barrier to reduce inflammation, which can trigger certain skin conditions. There is compelling evidence that probiotics hold promise for treating acne and rosacea.
While the research on probiotics is still in its relative infancy, they do seem to be beneficial, but only if taken every day. Taking them only now and again holds little value. Probiotics may be especially valuable during and after taking antibiotics and for boosting immune function during winter as they have been shown to reduce the number and severity of respiratory infections.
My preferred method of ensuring you're getting enough probiotics is, of course, from food. Probiotic-rich foods include kimchi, kefir and sauerkraut.
Image via Kultured Wellness
At the moment I'm having a play with Coconut Kefir from Kultured Wellness.
Think of Coconut Kefir as the more tropical, dairy-free alternative to milk Kefir. It’s a lighter consistency, has an energising fizz, and a refreshing tang. It's like a love bomb for your belly....I'll let you know how I go....