5 Surprising Benefits of Probiotic Supplements

When you look at the human body, you can easily become amazed at just how complex it is. It works and lives because of so many systems running simultaneously that depend on each other. For instance, you may think of your gut health as only relating to your digestive system, but it can have a much wider impact on the rest of your body.

Obtained through a trusted medical team, probiotics consist of living microorganisms that balance the bacteria content in your gut. Some of the benefits of taking probiotics may seem obvious and well known, like improving the digestive system and stopping diarrhea, but others may surprise you.

Probiotics Can Help with Mental Health Issues

Over recent years, studies have continued to indicate a link between gut health and mental health. In two separate, small-sample studies, petrochemical workers and patients with depression, anxiety, and other issues who took probiotic supplements for at least a couple of months showed improvement in their symptoms and felt notably better in their mental health.

Probiotics Can Lower Cholesterol

A certain strain of probiotic breaks down bile in your gut. This liquid consists mostly of “bad” LDL cholesterol and is normally reabsorbed, entering the bloodstream as a major risk for your heart health. By taking these supplements, you can vastly reduce the amount of bile and cholesterol in your body, which in turn alleviates stress on your heart.

Probiotics Can Address Bowel Conditions

Issues like ulcerative colitis and inflammatory bowel disease can severely impact your daily life. Taking a probiotic supplement with certain strains may help keep these conditions under better control.

Probiotics May Boost Your Immune System

Although much more research is needed, some studies indicate that probiotics may significantly lower women’s risk of urinary tract infections as well as decrease the severity and length of respiratory infections.

Probiotics May Help with Weight Loss

When it comes to gut bacteria, some can be beneficial in your efforts to shed excess pounds. When your digestive system runs smoothly, your body gets the nutrients it needs to have energy and burn fat, but one strain actually prevents fat absorption in the intestines, expelling it through feces instead of storing it. Just keep in mind that other strains of bacteria can lead to weight gain, so you need to make sure you’re taking the appropriate probiotic.

Even if you don’t have digestive problems, you may want to consider taking probiotic supplements to help with other issues. Having a better balance of bacteria in your gut can help your body operate more optimally overall.

About the Practice

Richardson Pain & Wellness is a general wellness clinic where many types of supplements and medical assistance are available. Our services include medical weight loss, anti-aging treatments, pain management, and hormone replacement therapy. Each patient receives personalized attention and treatment plans customized to their needs and goals. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or call our Richardson office at 972-907-1125.