How Probiotics Impact Immunity in Kailua-Kona

Probiotics in Kailua-Kona have become increasingly popular over the last decade or so, thanks to extensive research on the powerful benefits that are linked to good bacteria. If you're wondering what "bad" bacteria is, it's the kind that takes the form of germs, or diseases such as E.coli.

Probiotics in Kailua-Kona HI

Good bacteria, or probiotics, live in the stomach and intestines. They're important for helping to digest food among other things. They exist naturally in the body, but they also come from the food you eat, including some dairy products like yogurt.

While the thought of consuming bacteria may not sound so pleasant, probiotics are actually essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system, bone healthy and even your mood. It also turns out that these very beneficial microorganisms may also help support the immune system.

While bad bacteria can make you ill, good bacteria can keep you well. Probiotics not only keep that bad bacteria to a minimum, but they offer multiple immune-boosting benefits.

For example, C. diff (Clostridium difficile) is considered are superbug that has been shown in scientific studies to be resistant to antibiotics, and it's become a serious global problem. It can cause severe inflammation, diarrhea and other serious issues. Research has shown that taking a probiotic along with antibiotics can lessen the odds of getting C. diff. Studies have also revealed that increasing probiotics in the body results in a greater production of lymphocytes, which strengthen the body's immune response.

Research published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport revealed that athletes in New Zealand suffered from about 40% fewer colds and gastrointestinal infections when they took a probiotic as compared to when they took a placebo.

While consuming a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is a great way to keep your immune system functioning at its best, probiotics can take that up a notch, boosting it even further to ensure that your body is doing the best job it can to fight viruses and other foreign invaders that can cause illness.

In fact, studies have found that probiotics may be effective for preventing as well as reducing the duration of certain immune-related conditions. Two strains, for example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis, may reduce the severity of upper respiratory tract infections, while Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium bifidum may be effective for reducing the risk of infection.

Unfortunately, many people aren't getting enough probiotics, despite the fact that they've become a recognized nutrient. That's because that fermented foods are one of the largest food sources of probiotic bacteria, and few people eat raw sauerkraut every day. You could also eat more yogurt and other fermented foods like miso and kefir.

One of the best ways to ensure that you get enough of this beneficial bacteria is by taking a high quality supplement. Look for something that combines a number of different strains for the greatest effectiveness, such as B. animalis, L. rhamnosus and B. heveticus.