what protein that is needed by our bodies.

Maintaining the health of your gut is probably the number one thing you can do for your overall health. While you might think your gut is in perfect shape, it may not be! After all, the body is an integrated ecosystem, so imbalances in one area of the body can manifest themselves in an entirely different area.

Researchers are becoming increasingly aware that an unhealthy gut can compromise things like immunity, cognitive function, healthy weight, hormonal balance and much more. One of the easiest things you can do to heal your gut is to add beneficial bacteria, known as probiotics, to your daily diet.

Enjoy Greater Immunity

Surprisingly, 80% of our immune system is located in our digestive system! That means by boosting gut health, we naturally boost our immunity too.

Many studies have shown that regular intake of probiotics has a positive effect on immune health. Even when our bodies are under extreme pressure probiotics can give us a much needed boost, with research showing that long-distance runners who supplement with probiotics enjoy greater immune function.
Treat Inflammation

Chronic inflammation in the body is linked to a multitude of illnesses like asthma, allergies, heart disease, cancer, premature aging and more. Probiotics may actually help quell this excess inflammation and prevent or improve its associated conditions.

One study, carried out in Ireland, found that certain probiotic bacteria can help treat patients with inflammatory conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, psoriasis and ulcerative colitis.
Reduce Blood Pressure

A review of nine studies has shown a definite link between consuming beneficial bacteria and lower blood pressure levels – something that should be of particular interest to the one in three Americans suffering with hypertension.
Lower Cholesterol

Probiotics may be one of the many foods and drinks that can help lower cholesterol, according to a study of middle-aged men. They found that a daily fermented milk drink (a natural source of probiotics) reduced total cholesterol and LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol levels by 6% and 10% respectively.

It should be noted that not all studies have achieved these positive results, leading researchers to think that only certain strains of the bacteria are effective at reducing cholesterol.
Improve Learning and Memory

The brain and gastrointestinal system share an intimate connection – known as the brain-gut axis – which is why a healthy gut leads to a healthy brain. In one piece of research, healthy women given a probiotic-rich yogurt for four weeks displayed improved brain function when compared to either the placebo or control groups.
Boost Mood

The brain-gut axis may explain why probiotics have been found to help fight depression and anger too. In a study carried out in the Netherlands, scientists discovered that participants who took probiotics had a significant reduction in negative and aggressive thoughts.
Alleviate IBS

Some probiotics can alleviate the inflammatory and digestive symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) according to a review of 19 studies. These friendly bacteria may also maintain remission of Crohn’s Disease and avoid the recurrence of pouchitis – a complication of the surgery used to treat ulcerative colitis.

Prevent or Treat Diarrhea

Taking probiotics increases the ‘good’ bugs in your system, which work to crowd out the ‘bad’ ones – the ones that lead to diarrhea and other stomach problems. It’s no surprise then that several studies have found probiotics shorten the course of diarrhea in sufferers, particularly those with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

It’s also a good idea to load up on probiotics before traveling, as they are a safe and effective way to prevent infectious diarrhea, says an analysis of 23 trials.
Cure Urinary Tract Infections

Some research says UTIs – which affect over 50% of women – can be prevented with regular intake of probiotic foods, drinks or supplements.
Prevent Childhood Eczema and Allergies

Childhood eczema is an early sign of allergies – and probiotics may just help prevent both conditions in infants.

In a study of 241 women, scientists discovered that those who took probiotics while pregnant experienced a decrease in the occurrence of childhood eczema in their babies. While 71% of infants in the placebo group suffered eczema at least once, just 29% of infants in the probiotic group did.
Lose Weight

At least one piece of research suggests it may be possible to use probiotics to treat obesity. Keep in mind that a sluggish digestive system (which can be improved through probiotics) hinders weight loss.
Improve Oral Hygiene

There is a growing body of research to highlight the beneficial role of probiotics in taking care of your pearly whites – particularly when it comes to preventing and treating oral infections, dental caries, periodontal disease and bad breath.