Nutrition: Probiotics
Probiotics
So let’s start with a broad overview of the gut, and your microbiome. Your microbiome is made up of the bacteria in your gut. A healthy microbiome contributes to overall health and wellbeing. Dysbiosis is an imbalance in the composition or function of your microbiome. Imbalances in your microbiome are caused by poor diet, stress, antibiotics, hygiene, and certain medical conditions. Diets (ie: the Standard American Diet) high in processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and low fiber contribute to dysbiosis. Antibiotics kill the beneficial bacteria, as well as the targeted bacteria, creating imbalances, and allow the “bad” bacteria to run rampant. ALWAYS follow the use of antibiotics with probiotics, if you are not already doing a daily probiotic. In this scenario – use the probiotics for several weeks to a month. Excessive hygiene practices, such as over using antibacterial products is damaging to the microbiome.
Dysbiosis can manifest in many ways. It can contribute to digestive issues, including bloating, gas or diarrea. It can contribute to skin issues, like acne, eczema, rashes and itchy skin. It can contribute to urinary tract infections. It can cause low energy and fatigue. Dysbiosis is linked to anxiety, depression, and brain fog.
IMPORTANT FACT: The gut is known as the “second brain”. There is more neurological input to the brain, from the gut, than vice versa. This fact, in itself, is the single greatest reason EVERYONE should take a probiotic daily.
UltraFlora Probiotic + Multivitamin
This is a new probiotic that Metagenics offers. In addition to the benefits of the probiotic – this supplement provides 100% of the daily value for 17 key vitamins and minerals. The probiotic strain in this formula has been shown to:
- -Boost immunity
- -Support regular digestion
- -Enhance energy metabolism
- -Enhance nutrient absorption
- -Promote overall wellness
UltraFlora Balance
This is a Best Seller at Metagenics. This probiotic helps maintain a healthy gut barrier by reducing inflammation. This anti-inflammatory action is important because an inflamed gut leads to a leaky gut, which contributes to brain fog, anxiety and depression. It supports digestion, as well as, promotes immune support, and overall wellness. This is s a great foundational probiotic.
FUN FACT : One serving of this product is equal to 12 servings of yogurt, or 15 bottles of Kombucha.
UltraFlora Complete Women’s Probiotic
This is the new and improved version of Metagenics Best Seller, UltraFlora Women’s Probiotic. Metagenics’ research showed that 92% of women queried, experienced improvement in urinary tract health. This probiotic also helps maintain healthy vaginal odor and pH balance.
Additionally,, this provides gut support, decreases bloating and supports immune function. Other benefits include aiding the nervous system in stress management, improved emotional wellbeing, and overall whole body benefits.
The importance of Probiotics
Probiotics are important for many reasons. Some of these reasons are:
- Improved Digestion
- Enhanced Immunity
- Gut Health – they help maintain a healthy gut barrier
- Reduced Risk of Infections
- Supports Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Weight Management
- Supports Healthy Skin
- Women’s Health (Supports optimal vaginal & urinary health)
- Respiratory Health
All these benefits are the reason Probiotics are in the TOP 5 supplements that everyone would benefit from.
So, how do I know which strain of probiotics would provide the most benefit? There is no short answer to this, but here is a fairly straight forward approach to take. Metagenics has 16 different probiotic products. Go to my estore @ MResetarits.metagenics.com, and peruse their probiotics selections. Read the descriptions of the various products, and one or two will most likely pop out as a good choice for you. I am always here to help you navigate the various choices as well.
And remember – you can order all your supplements at our Metagenics estore at MResetarits.metagenics.com.