This week, now that we are over our food coma, let’s take a look at the usage of probiotics to help aid in the digestion of all those foods.

Per the Cleveland Clinic, probiotics are, “…live bacteria and yeasts that have beneficial effects on your body. These species already live in your body, along with many others. Probiotic supplements add to your existing supply of friendly microbes. They help fight off the less friendly types and boost your immunity against infections.”

There are three common types-

• Lactobacillus: Found in yogurt and other fermented foods. Helps with diarrhea and may benefit people who can’t digest lactose.
• Bifidobacterium: Found in some dairy products. May help ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Saccharomyces boulardii: A yeast found in probiotics that helps fight diarrhea and other digestive problems.

Taking probiotics has a bunch of health benefits, like –

• Helps prevent or treat diarrhea, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
• May enhance immune function and reduce the risk of infections.
• Recent research suggests a gut-brain connection, with potential benefits for anxiety, depression, and mood.
• May help with conditions like eczema and acne.
• Some strains may help with weight loss or reduce belly fat

Other than supplements, where can we find it? Well, in fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, kombucha.

Just be warned if you are considering taking probiotics that not all are the same and they have different effects be sure to consult a doctor before taking any.