What have you known about probiotics? You’ve probably heard a lot about it today. It can be a suggested solution for optimal health. Even physicians advise their patients to add probiotics in their diet after getting sick. Currently, numerous studies, which claim that probiotics alone could treat illnesses, are being expanded. It is already a fact that probiotics could help in the improvement of health. And, more women are beginning to see its effect in relieving menopausal symptoms. Know what is probiotics and see how it can be the solution for your optimal health!
What is Probiotics?
Probiotics are good bacteria and yeasts that naturally live inside our body. These organisms are also found in some food sources such as yogurts, kefir and other fermented food. Probiotics are also called beneficial flora, which help us absorb nutrients, improve our immune system, and even produce the important components that our body needs. These probiotics are found all over the body, some in the gut, while some also live in the vagina. But what do they do?
- Recycle and metabolize hormones such as estrogens, thyroid hormones, and phytoestrogens from supplements and food sources.
- Relieve menopause symptoms such as vaginal dryness, vaginal infections, pain during sex, incontinence, vaginal atrophy, irritability, weight gain, and more.
- Aid in keeping a balanced hormone that results to better bone and breast health.
- Digest antioxidants and flavonoids and lower the risk of having cancer.
Studies suggest that probiotics prevent harmful bacteria from entering and attaching on vaginal walls by producing certain toxins that protect the organ. These microorganisms also help in keeping a healthy vaginal tissue by preventing inflammation of the vulva as they modulate the immune system. They reduce the chance of infections and prevent it from relapsing by keeping the vaginal ecosystem balanced with good microorganisms.
Probiotics may also reduce bloating, which is usually felt during menopause. Bloating may cause discomforts like irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea. Most of the time, these symptoms are caused by bad bacteria that enter the gut. Probiotics help in alleviation of bloating by counteracting the effect of bad bacteria, and bringing back the natural balance in the gut.
In a clinical trial, researchers have concluded that probiotics have improved the symptoms of bloating in patients with functional bowel disorders. Experts say taking probiotics may improve a woman’s overall health. It also eases irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), candidiasis, and female urogenital tract conditions. A study in 2017 published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health found that probiotics can be a potential therapy for osteoporosis.
The use of probiotics for menopausal relief is gradually expanding. Researchers hope that in time, with additional proofs, they will finally uncover how probiotics alone could help in alleviation of sicknesses. In the meantime, health care providers suggest the addition of probiotics to treatments of menopausal symptoms for optimal health.
Sources of Probiotics
Yogurt
Yogurts are the number one source of good bacteria. However, not all products are made equally. Be sure you choose yogurts that are organically made from goat’s milk and cheeses. Always check the labels of the products and avoid as much as possible those with too much artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial flavorings.
Kefir
Kefir is a fermented product with combinations of milk goat and kefir seeds. Aside from probiotics like lactobacilli and bifidus bacteria, kefirs are also rich in antioxidants. Be sure to get the organically made products, which are safer and healthier options.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut or “sour cabbage” is fermented finely cut cabbages. It is rich in lactic acid bacilli, which are good for the gut and could reduce allergy symptoms. It as well contains vitamins E, B, A, and C.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolates are rich in probiotics, and has four times more probiotics than dairy products. However, too much consumption of dark chocolates could bring unwanted effects therefore should be consumed moderately.
Microalgae
Microalgae are ocean-based goodness that exists as blue-green, chlorella and spirulina. These foods are rich in good bacteria such as Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria.
Miso Soup
Miso soup is a traditional Japanese soup made from fermented rye, beans and barley. Aside from probiotics, miso soup is believed to be packed with nutrition that could also alkalinize the body.
Tempeh
Tempeh is a traditional fermented soy product from Indonesia made into a cake form. It is similar to burger patties but not made of meat. It is rich in probiotics and vitamin B12, but low on salt, which makes it a perfect choice for individuals on a low-sodium diet.
Kimchi
Kimchi is like an Asian Sauerkraut that originated in Korea but is extremely spicy. It is usually served as side dish in Korean meals, but could also be eaten as snack. It is rich in calcium, beta-carotene, iron and vitamins A, B1, B2 and C.
Fermented foods are excellent sources of probiotics. Learn more about fermented foods and see how easy it is to prepare them for yourself at home! Check our post out about Fermented food today and prepare your own probiotics with convenience!
Are you including probiotics in your diet? Does it help? We’d like to hear from you! Share it with us below.
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