Probiotic Foods And Their Health Benefits
We all mostly consider bacteria as ‘germs’ that are harmful to us, but the truth is there are many microorganisms which could be very helpful. They help in improving our immunity, promote the production of vitamin 812, etc, Our notion of bacteria is something that causes diseases, but a large portion of our body comprises of bacteria – both good and bad. In fact, 80 per cent of the bacteria present in the intestinal lining of the digestive tract are called probiotics. The concept of probiotics came to light in the 20th century.
Researchers have found that probiotics helps in treating flu, colds, and colic. It also helps lower cholesterol and encourages weight loss. These good gut bacteria are also responsible for producing vitamin B-12, butyrate, vitamin K2 and help fight bad bacteria, yeast, and fungi. Furthermore, probiotics create enzymes that destroy harmful bacteria and stimulate secretion of IgA and regulatory T Cells that eventually improves immunity.
There are plenty of probiotics in our diet ranging from fresh foods and fermented foods. However, the most common fermented food found in every household is curd. It is not only a good source of protein and calcium but also provides the probiotics that are very essential. Foods such as dhokla, idli, dosa, and Yakult are some more examples of probiotic foods which we must include in our diet.
Major Health Benefits Of Probiotics
Enhances Digestive Health
Certain strains of probiotics have shown positive results in treating diarrhoea and gastroenteritis. Studies have also concluded that the lactobacillus can significantly reduce the risk of diarrhoea in infants.
Controls Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Probiotics have proven to help people with irritable bowel syndrome. Many studies have shown that probiotics reduces the symptoms associated with IBS. Bifidobacterium infantis, is the bacteria that has shown to have a positive effect.
Improves Immunity
The probiotic bacteria helps in stimulating immune response and studies suggest that when people are given fermented dairy drinks, there is a rise in the production of lymphocyte, which is an immune response marker.
Encourages Weight Loss
Probiotic dairy products also have a positive effect on reducing abdominal fat and weight. Yogurt consumption has proven to help in the reduction of body fat. Hence, incorporating probiotic dairy products like yogurt in one’s diet helps in losing abdominal fat.