Are you feeling bombarded by the vast range and type of pre and probiotics available on the shelves? Do and wonder how exactly they work and how they can enhance your digestive health? Below is some great information on the two and how to know which one you need!
Also, remember all staff at The Health Store have a comprehensive knowledge of all the products they stock and we will be happy to guide you through your natural health care needs you in store, by phone, email or on any of our social media outlets. For more information see www.thehealthstore.ie
Probiotics:
Our bodies are mostly composed of bacteria, with the majority of these bacteria found in our digestive system. These are crucial in their beneficial role at influencing our overall health, along with our digestive health. Good bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria may become imbalanced by an overgrowth of bad bacteria through lifestyle factors, such as stress and poor nutrition choices, as well as alcohol and antibiotic use.
A probiotic is a form of good bacteria which not only works to restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut, but it can also help to relieve digestive issues and protect your immune system. The effects of a probiotic are determined by the strains of bacteria used in its manufacture, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Prebiotics:
A prebiotic, which may be incorporated in certain probiotics, is a natural fibre that works to enhance both the balance and effect of probiotics by providing substrate for their growth. Some great prebiotic food sources include Jerusalem artichoke, garlic, leeks, onions and asparagus, all of which can be easily added into the diet. To achieve the optimal benefits when choosing your probiotic supplement, always aim to choose an option which incorporates a prebiotic, as these will work in synergy to enhance the overall action of the formula.
This article was kindly submitted by Caroline Punch. Caroline graduated in Nutritional Therapy from the College of Naturopathic Medicine. CNM trains students for careers in a range of natural therapies, including Naturopathic Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture and Naturopathy. There are CNM colleges across Ireland, the UK, and in the US. www.naturopathy.ie
Probiotics:
Our bodies are mostly composed of bacteria, with the majority of these bacteria found in our digestive system. These are crucial in their beneficial role at influencing our overall health, along with our digestive health. Good bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria may become imbalanced by an overgrowth of bad bacteria through lifestyle factors, such as stress and poor nutrition choices, as well as alcohol and antibiotic use.
A probiotic is a form of good bacteria which not only works to restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut, but it can also help to relieve digestive issues and protect your immune system. The effects of a probiotic are determined by the strains of bacteria used in its manufacture, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Prebiotics:
A prebiotic, which may be incorporated in certain probiotics, is a natural fibre that works to enhance both the balance and effect of probiotics by providing substrate for their growth. Some great prebiotic food sources include Jerusalem artichoke, garlic, leeks, onions and asparagus, all of which can be easily added into the diet. To achieve the optimal benefits when choosing your probiotic supplement, always aim to choose an option which incorporates a prebiotic, as these will work in synergy to enhance the overall action of the formula.
This article was kindly submitted by Caroline Punch. Caroline graduated in Nutritional Therapy from the College of Naturopathic Medicine. CNM trains students for careers in a range of natural therapies, including Naturopathic Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture and Naturopathy. There are CNM colleges across Ireland, the UK, and in the US. www.naturopathy.ie
