We see on the market lately more and more products that include probiotics. Many people wonder what probiotics are and if they’re worth adding to the cart. We understand that a probiotic product can help you stay healthy.
Defining Probiotics
We use the term probiotics to refer to tiny microorganisms that provide valuable health benefits. Many of these microorganisms already live in our bodies. By consuming probiotic products, you increase the number of valuable microorganisms in your body.
For microorganisms to qualify as probiotics, they must meet the following criteria:
- Safe to consume
- Able to survive after ingestion
- Provide you with proven benefits
Microorganisms that do not help you feel better do not qualify as probiotics.
Probiotics vs. Prebiotics
You may also see products that say they contain prebiotics. Many consumers wonder if prebiotics and probiotics are the same. Prebiotics represent components of your food that assist certain microorganisms. Prebiotics are not microorganisms on their own.
Probiotics and Bacteria
We mentioned that probiotics are microorganisms. Many forms of bacteria qualify as probiotics. Common examples of bacteria that act as probiotics include:
- Lactobacillus
- Bifidobacterium
- Saccharomyces boulardii
While many people associate bacteria with illnesses, probiotic bacteria play a beneficial role in your body systems. Your body usually contains some of these bacteria before you add dietary probiotics.
Parts of Your Body with Probiotics
Probiotic organisms live in several places in your body. Generally, they thrive in areas that encounter the world outside. Many people know that probiotics live in their digestive systems, including the mouth, stomach, and intestines.
Doctors also find probiotics inside our lungs and urinary tract or on our skin. These are a few examples of where we find probiotic organisms.
Probiotic Supplements: Ingredients and Benefits
Although probiotics naturally occur in foods like yogurt in kimchi, many people struggle to incorporate these foods into their diets. For an easy way to get their full recommended daily value of probiotics, many turn to supplements.
Ethical brand probiotic supplements are good for you because they contain ethically sourced ingredients. These ingredients help you digest food, control bad bacteria, and keep you from getting sick.
Bacillus Subtilis DE111
Bacillus subtilis DE111 (B. subtilis) is a probiotic that supports a healthy gut biome and fosters more good bacteria growth. B. subtilis aids digestion by producing enzymes, antioxidants, vitamins, and antimicrobial compounds. It also plays a key role in promoting a healthy immune system.
Fructooligosaccharide Prebiotic Fiber
This prebiotic fiber is often abbreviated to FOS. It protects against “bad” bacteria that can cause food poisoning and other food-borne illnesses like salmonella. FOS travels through your stomach and into your intestines, where it improves digestion and prevents constipation.
Share Your Probiotic Products with the World
Our team at Ethical provides supplements and vitamins full of ethically sourced ingredients that contribute to overall good health. Connect with us online to learn more about our options for probiotic supplements as well as multivitamins and post-workout supplements.
Take care,
Team Ethical
