Probiotics are live microorganisms commonly used to support various aspects of human health, especially by influencing the balance of the gut microbiome. The primary uses of probiotics include:
- Supporting digestive health: Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, crowding out harmful microbes, improving intestinal barrier function, and assisting in the management of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain[1].[2]
- Preventing and treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea: Probiotic supplementation may reduce the risk of diarrhea related to antibiotic use by restoring the natural gut flora that antibiotics can deplete[4].
- Enhancing immune system function: Probiotics can help modulate immune responses, boost the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and reduce inflammation, potentially lowering the incidence or severity of various infections[2].[1].
- Improving heart health: Certain probiotic strains are associated with lower cholesterol (especially LDL) and blood pressure, supporting overall cardiovascular health[5].[3].
- Helping with mental and neurological health: Some probiotics may produce or modulate neurotransmitters through the gut-brain axis, with evidence suggesting possible benefits for mood, behavior, stress management, anxiety, and depression[6].[2].
- Contributing to cancer prevention and supporting cancer therapy: Probiotics may have anti-inflammatory and oncostatic (cancer-preventing) properties, and can ease gastrointestinal side effects during cancer treatment[6].[3].
- Improving skin conditions: Some probiotics reduce inflammation and may help manage skin issues like acne, rosacea, and psoriasis[3].
The benefits of probiotics depend on the specific strains used and the condition being treated. While evidence is strongest for certain gastrointestinal conditions, research continues to explore broader uses for probiotics in health and disease management[6].
References
- [1] 5 Health Benefits of Probiotics – Healthline
- [2] Probiotics: mechanism of action, health benefits and their … – Frontiers
- [3] Probiotics: Health Benefits, Types, and Best Sources – HelpGuide.org
- [4] Health Benefits of Probiotics: A Review – PMC
- [5] Probiotics – Health Professional Fact Sheet
- [6] A comprehensive review of probiotics and human health-current …
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