If someone would ask us which of all supplements is the most important one, the answer will probably be Probiotics: healthy gut bacteria.
Healthy intestinal bacteria play such a big role in general health. Not just for digestion, but also for regulation of the immune system, vaginal health, balance of hormones, stabilization of metabolism, counteracting allergies, detoxification and even emotional health. Probiotics can also help with weight loss, acne problems and make hair and skin healthier.
In a perfect world, we would most likely get away with a proper diet. But then there could be no preservatives or artificial additives in the food. There could be no toxins in the air or water. And perhaps most importantly, there could be no medications or other unnatural things destroying our gut bacteria.
Probiotics support the daily functioning of the trillions of bacteria that live in the stomach. Our bacterial friends play a well-defined role in our digestion, which allows us to break down and absorb important nutrients such as magnesium, iron, copper, calcium, fats, proteins and complex carbohydrates.
Probiotics also play an important role in maintaining vaginal health. They do this by helping to maintain a somewhat acidic environment, which helps to reduce an overgrowth of bacteria that could otherwise be harmful. This is particularly important as there are a number of events that can affect the vaginal environment negatively, including the use of antibiotics and contraceptives. Finally, it is important to recognize that healthy gut bacteria help with the regulation of hormones.
Dr David Perlmutter talks about 5 important healthy gut bacterias:
Different strains provide different benefits, and according to Dr. Perlmutter, these five are some of the most important:
”Lactobacillus plantarum: This strain is available in kimchi, sauerkraut and other fermented vegetables. It is one of the most beneficial bacteria in your body. It survives in the stomach for a long time and performs many functions that help regulate the immune system and control inflammation of the intestine. It also helps to strengthen the intestinal wall and ward off potential invaders who can otherwise compromise the intestinal wall and sneak into the bloodstream. In fact, the positive effect that L. plantarum has on the intestine is perhaps the most important characteristic, since it reduces intestinal permeability and thereby reduces the risk of leaky gut.
In addition, L. plantarum can rapidly digest protein, and by effect, prevent food allergies and even treat such allergies when they occur. Finally, L. plantarum has an incredible ability to absorb and retain important nutrients, such as omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. All of these characteristics make L. plantarum an essential strain for dealing with infections and taking control.
Lactobacillus acidophilus: L. acidophilus is an important part of all fermented dairy products, including yogurt. It supports your immune system by maintaining the balance between good and bad bacteria. In women, it helps cure the growth of Candida albicans, a fungus that can cause yeast infections. L. acidophilus is also known for its ability to help maintain cholesterol levels. In the small intestine, L. acidophilus produces many beneficial substances that fight pathogenic microbes, including acidolphilin, acidoline, bacteriocin and lactocidin.
Lactobacillus brevis: You will find this in sauerkraut and pickles, which improves immune function through increased cellular immunity. It effectively combats vaginosis, a common bacterial infection of the vagina. L. brevis also acts to inhibit the effects of certain intestinal pathogens. Perhaps best of all, it has been shown to increase the levels of the growth hormone BDNF.
Bifidobacterium lactis (also known as B. animalis): Fermented milk products such as yogurt contain this gem. A lot of research supports claims that this bacteria plays an important role in the prevention of digestive problems and boosting the immune system. It is also known to knock out food-borne pathogens such as salmonella, which causes diarrhoea.
Bifidobacterium longum: This is one of the 32 species belonging to the genus bifidobacterium and one of the first bacteria to colonize our bodies at birth. It has been associated with improved lactose tolerance and the prevention of food allergies and the spread of pathogens. It is also known to have antioxidant properties as well as the ability to kill free radicals. In laboratory mice, B. longum has been shown to reduce anxiety. Like L. acidophilus, B. longum also helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. “
David Perlmutter, M.D is an American expert on brain health and human microbes. He is also a certified neurologist and best-selling author on the New York Times’ best-seller list. Dr. Perlmutter created these powerful Probiotica products in collaboration with Garden of Life, based on his extensive research.
