Probiotics contain a host of bacterial and fungal microorganisms that help support the overall gut health of the body. Taking a probiotic is beneficial for everything from combatting stomach issues to maintaining mental health – and yes, there’s a connection!
Probiotics can be found naturally in fermented foods like yoghurt or kimchi and they are produced in supplement form to aid the gut in maintaining a balanced community of microorganisms. But how do we know if the probiotic supplements we’re taking are actually working?
Signs your probiotics are working…
If you’re taking a daily probiotic supplement, you’ll know that a healthy gut contains a balance of ‘good’ bacteria and fungi (ie. flora) that support the gut lining and help maintain a balance in the body. Gut flora ferments fiber that reaches the gut, and creates fatty acids that are essential in regulating inflammation across the body, boosting metabolism and preventing disease.
As probiotics are beneficial across the body for different reasons, there are some tell-tale signs that your probiotics are working! Here are 7 to look out for:
Your gut feels good!
The most obvious sign that your probiotics are working is improved digestion. If you’ve experienced issues like bloating, stomach ache, constipation or diarrhoea (which may be caused by a number of reasons including stress, food intolerance or other underlying conditions) a probiotic supplement can help combat these symptoms.
Have you ever had a doctor prescribe a dose of probiotics with your antibiotics? This is to aid in the balance of ‘good’ vs ‘bad’ bacteria in the gut. Studies show that probiotics may even reduce the risk of diarrhoea associated with taking antibiotics.
ALSO SEE: Get to grips with gut your health, one snack at a time
Brain boost…
If you’ve noticed any difference in your cognitive ability – ie. mental processes that involve understanding, learning, or problem solving – your probiotics are doing the trick! Probiotics can promote enhanced cognition, so you may notice a difference in your ability to remember things, pay attention, think and reason.
Getty
You’re in a good mood!
Enhanced cognitive ability isn’t the only brain health benefit that probiotics boast. A good balance of bacteria in the gut can also boost overall mood and mental health. According to studies, 95% of the body’s serotonin (the happy chemical) is made in the gut! Have you experienced reduced symptoms of depression, or anxiety? Your probiotic pal may be responsible!
Sleeping better
When you’ve got a healthy brain, your sleep will be better, too! Studies suggest that popping a probiotic supplement may enhance sleep quality and reduce symptoms of insomnia.
ALSO SEE: How to set up your bedroom for better sleep
Your energy is on 100
We all know that a healthy diet promotes energy levels. However, when your gut microbiome is out of balance, your body may not be absorbing the nutrients your diet provides efficiently, which effectively cancels out your efforts to ‘eat for energy.’
You’ll know your probiotic supplement is working when you feel more energised throughout the day, especially after healthy meals.
Dealing with stress becomes easier
Did you know that a healthy gut can change the way you respond to stress? According to an article written by Health News, people with leaky gut may struggle with a more intense stress response due to the gut’s link to inflammation in the brain.
A probiotic will boost gut health, which will then aid in reducing inflammation across the body. A healthy gut equals a healthy brain, which in turn equals a healthy stress response!
Your skin is glowing!
Gut imbalance can contribute to skin conditions such as acne, eczema, rosacea and rashes. Healthy skin can often be a reflection of a healthy body. If you notice fewer flare-ups and clearer skin, it may be a sign that your probiotics are doing their job.
ALSO SEE:
Feature Image: Getty
