12/10/2023
No discussion about gut health would be complete without talking about PROBIOTICS! 🦠
Probiotics are live microorganisms found in foods that increase the numbers of beneficial bacteria within the gut microbiome. These beneficial microorganisms are known as "commensal" bacteria, often referred to as "good" bacteria.
Probiotics play a really important role in promoting overall health, particularly when looking at the health and integrity of both the gut & the skin. In the gut, commensal bacteria populations such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species support a balanced microbiome, aiding in digestion, promote nutrient absorption, and regulate our immune system function. They also help maintain a healthy gut lining and prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
Recent research has also also highlighted the important role of probiotics in managing skin conditions and promoting skin health. By modulating the gut-brain-skin axis, probiotics can help alleviate or prevent skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea - which can be attributed to their ability to reduce inflammation, improve skin barrier function, and regulate the immune system, ultimately contributing to healthier, more radiant skin.
A powerful way to support the health of your gut & skin is to incorporate more probiotic-rich foods into your diet. This includes foods such as:
- kimchi
- sauerkraut
- kefir
- natural yoghurt
- tempeh
- kombucha
- sourdough
Probiotic supplements can also be beneficial in the short term in managing and treating gut or skin conditions. However, given the huge number of bacterial strains out there, it's always best to consult your practitioner to ensure you're taking the right strain for you!
