4 Must Know Facts About Probiotics
Probiotics are often thought of as simply aiding digestion, but their benefits extend far beyond that. These beneficial bacteria are crucial not only for digesting food and absorbing nutrients but also for supporting mood, cardiovascular health, and a robust immune system. Here are four fascinating facts you should know about probiotics.
Probiotics Begin Before Birth
It was once widely believed that a newborn’s gut was sterile, collecting microbes only during birth and in the early years of life. However, recent research suggests that a child’s microbial exposure starts even before birth. One study found that placental tissue after birth had many similarities with bacteria found in the mother’s mouth. This challenges the idea that the placenta is sterile and indicates that a baby’s exposure to both beneficial and harmful bacteria begins in the womb.
Probiotics Are Good for Your Mental Health
Historically, many scientists doubted the notion that probiotics could affect mental health. However, there is now compelling evidence linking gut bacteria to behavioral conditions such as autism and depression. One study found that imbalances in certain gut bacteria could be related to these conditions, suggesting that probiotic treatments might help individuals with autism. Although the research is still in its early stages, the connection between gut bacteria and brain health is becoming increasingly evident.
Probiotics Influence Heart Health
While diet and exercise are traditionally seen as the primary factors in maintaining a healthy heart, new findings suggest that gut bacteria also play a crucial role. In a study where probiotics were used to reduce the presence of certain bacteria, there was a significant drop in the blood levels of leptin, a hormone related to heart health. Although the study was conducted on rats, the reduced leptin levels were associated with a lower risk of heart damage, generating enough interest to prompt human trials.
Farmers Are Making the Switch to Probiotics for Livestock
Not long ago, a significant portion of antibiotics in the U.S. was consumed by farm animals, with the FDA estimating it at around 80%. This overuse has led to an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a serious threat to human health. To address this issue, the Canadian government is funding a study that involves feeding livestock a mixture of probiotics and antioxidants. The goal is to reduce or even eliminate the need for antibiotics in farming, thus mitigating the development of antibiotic resistance.
One Final Thought
While probiotics are likely beneficial for your health, it’s important to manage your expectations and conduct thorough research before incorporating them into your regimen. The market for probiotics is projected to be worth approximately $45 billion by 2018, which may attract some unscrupulous companies looking to capitalize. However, the high life expectancy of Japanese women, who live in a country that consumes over half of the world’s probiotics, suggests that these beneficial bacteria do have a positive impact when used correctly.
