Let's start with the basics. Probiotics are live microorganisms that make up our microbiome - the ecosystem within our bodies that is unique to each individual (as unique as your fingerprint, no two people are the same). The health of our microbiome relies on having a variety and abundance of microorganisms present and thriving - when they do, they provide many benefits supporting digestion, hormone production and signaling. In addition to boosting immunity, we now have links between gut dysfunction (dysbiosis) and obesity, Type 2 DM, and mental health, kidney, and brain health as well!

We get good gut bugs (probiotics) by consuming a variety of plant foods which have their own microbiomes. Also found in fermented foods and perhaps most popular, supplement/pill form.

BUT…are these probiotic pills really doing anything for us?

As with most things in nutrition and health - it depends. While I do think there can be a role for probiotic supplements, the current research is ever more convincing me that this has become another “quick-fix strategy” to sell people on improving their digestive health.

The reason, is that unless we change our foundation of nutrients and consume healthier food such as bananas, onions, garlic, asparagus, and whole grains - the fibers and nutrients that the gut bugs need to survive and thrive, we can suck down as many pills as we want but those good organisms will die. Additionally, when these microorganisms digest and break down these nutrient rich foods, that’s when we reap the many benefits of having a healthy gut microbiome. If they're not thriving, neither are we.

Did you know what our gut is responsible for serotonin production? Literally when our gut is happy, so are we!

Once your gut is primed and ready, then we might want to consider introducing probiotic pills into the mix. Whether through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, or high-quality supplements, probiotics can then colonize and multiply in your gut, exerting their beneficial effects.

If you have concerns about your gut health or feel that you can’t tolerate many of the healthy foods that work to improve gut health - let’s talk!

Reach out or hit reply and let me know what are YOUR next steps to improve your gut bugs? Have you ever wished someone would just TELL YOU what the best diet approach is for reaching your goals? HERE IT IS: get your COMPLETE and CUSTOMIZED Nutrition Analysis ($39)Access my professional grade portal, enter a few days of your food choices and I will personally provide you with a complete report and recommendations to improve. Find it HERE

Do you ever wish someone would just tell you what to eat everyday and make your life a little easier? IT'S HERE!

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Here's to thriving gut health and happy digestion!

In good health,

Nadia

www.RDNadia.com

Probiotics: Hope or Hype?