Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They help keep your gut healthy by balancing the good and bad bacteria in your gut.

The most common probiotic bacteria are lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. They can be found in some foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles. They can also be taken in the form of supplements.

The Known Benefits of Probiotics

The benefits of probiotics have been widely studied, and their contribution to digestive health is well-known. Some of the known benefits of probiotics include:.

Improving digestion
Boosting the immune system
Reducing the risk of urinary tract infections
Reducing the risk of yeast infections
Reducing the risk of inflammatory bowel disease
Reducing the risk of traveler’s diarrhea
Reducing the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea

The Lesser-Known Benefits of Probiotics

1. Reducing stress

Probiotics may help reduce stress by lowering the level of cortisol, a stress hormone, in the body. In a study, people who took a probiotic supplement for a month had lower levels of cortisol compared to those who did not take the supplement.

Lower cortisol levels are associated with a lower risk of anxiety and depression.

2. Improving mental health

Probiotics may also improve mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. In a study, people who took a probiotic supplement for 8 weeks had a significant reduction in symptoms of depression compared to those who took a placebo.

Another study found that probiotics may improve cognitive function in older adults with mild memory impairment.

3. Preventing allergies

Probiotics may help prevent allergies by stimulating the immune system to produce more immunoglobulin A, an antibody that helps fight allergens.

In a study, infants who were given a probiotic supplement were less likely to develop eczema, a common allergic skin condition. Another study found that probiotics may reduce seasonal allergy symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.

4. Improving oral health

Probiotics may also improve oral health by reducing the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

In a study, people who took a probiotic supplement for 12 weeks had a significant reduction in plaque and gingivitis compared to those who did not take the supplement. Another study found that probiotics may reduce the risk of oral thrush, a fungal infection of the mouth.

5. Enhancing skin health

Probiotics may also enhance skin health by reducing inflammation and improving skin barrier function.

In a study, people who took a probiotic supplement for 12 weeks had a significant reduction in acne and rosacea compared to those who did not take the supplement. Another study found that probiotics may improve the skin’s hydration and elasticity.

6. Fighting cancer

Probiotics may also have anti-cancer properties by stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells.

In a study, people with colon cancer who took a probiotic supplement had a significant reduction in tumor growth compared to those who did not take the supplement. Another study found that probiotics may reduce the risk of breast cancer in women.

7. Boosting athletic performance

Probiotics may also boost athletic performance by reducing inflammation and improving energy metabolism. In a study, athletes who took a probiotic supplement for 14 weeks had a significant improvement in endurance compared to those who took a placebo.

Another study found that probiotics may reduce muscle damage and improve recovery after exercise.

Conclusion

Probiotics have numerous health benefits, many of which are well-known. However, there are also several lesser-known benefits of probiotics that can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being.

By incorporating probiotics into your diet or taking supplements, you can take advantage of these benefits and improve your digestive health, mental health, immune system, and more.