After self-care, the buzziest word of 2019 is, without a doubt, probiotics. For the not-so-familiar with the topic individual, probiotics are like these magic beans that will solve all of our bodies’ issues. From mental health to gut health and everything in between, probiotics are the Holy Grail of supplements.

Are they?

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Probiotics 101

Let’s analyze the probiotics world under the microscope. We have bacteria in our bodies that outnumber our cells 10 to 1. That means bacteria invade our bodies. Most of that bacteria call our gut home.

In general, bacteria are harmless. Having the right bacteria has even been linked with some health benefits. Probiotics are the nickname for a specific type of healthy bacteria, which can provide some of these health benefits when eaten or supplemented.

The more probiotics we ingest, the more healthy bacteria will live in our gut…as long as they stay balanced.

Why Should You Care?

Think of your gut as this involved a community of microorganisms trying to live together. Your gut can contain as many as 1,000 different types of microorganisms living together. When your gut flora is balanced, you can experience many health benefits. But, when there’s a disruption in the balance, things can go wrong. Unbalanced gut flora has been linked to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and depression.

Probiotics can help correct this balance, ensuring your gut community functions optimally.