Probiotics are non-pathogenic bacteria or yeast that can survive in the harsh environment in the gastrointestinal tract. Our gut consists up to 1,000 different species of microorganisms which weight 1.5-2kg. The interest in probiotics has exploded over the past few years as increasing number of research studies show how these bacteria significantly affect our overall health and well-being.
Inside the gut, healthy bacteria will help to breakdown food and activate vitamins and hormones to be absorbed into the body. Vitamin K2, for example, is produced by the healthy gut bacteria and is significantly depleted in people with poor gut bacteria due to chronic antibiotic use. These bacteria also improve the gut barrier which protects us from pathogens and other molecules that should not enter the body. Healthy bacteria can prevent and help in the treatment of gastroenteritis, travellers’ diarrhea, ulcerative colitis and IBS.
Our diet, lifestyle and environment significantly impact our own microbiome. The foods you eat, the water you drink, medications you take, people you interact with, hygiene practices and your general exposure to the outdoor environment affect your gut microbiome. Eating a variety of foods especially fibre and fermented foods, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight can help maintain healthy gut microbiome. Taking a probiotic supplement combats the antibiotics that we may encounter in our environment and help recover from illness and pharmaceutical treatment.