Probiotics

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that convey a health benefit on the host when consumed at a certain dose. We all have good and bad bacteria in our intestinal tracts. The key is to maintain a healthy balance as to not have too much bad bacteria. Making sure to consume enough good bacteria, such as probiotics, helps to maintain a healthier ecosystem and avoid any negative symptoms of an unhealthy gut.

Benefits of Probiotics

Some of the most studied benefits of probiotics include gut and immune health. Probiotics can help people with absorption of certain nutrients from food such as amino acids from protein in the intestinal tract.

Prebiotic vs Probiotic

Probiotics and prebiotics are both important for overall gut health, although they each serve a different purpose. Think of probiotics as the beneficial bacteria that make up the gut microbiome and prebiotics are what feed these bacteria. Probiotics are mostly found in certain fermented foods and drinks as well as supplements, while prebiotics are byproducts of certain carbohydrates, like fiber supplements, that are indigestible.

What Are Probiotics Good For?

Beneficial gut bacteria help to keep our immune system healthy and prevent us from developing an overgrowth or harmful bacteria that can lead to negative health consequences. Consuming enough probiotics is good for helping to balance the ratio of good and bad bacteria in the gut. 

What Do Probiotics Do?

Making sure to consume enough good bacteria (probiotic intake) helps to maintain a healthier ecosystem and avoid any negative symptoms of an unhealthy gut. Therefore, the main mechanism of probiotics is to restore and/ or keep that healthy balance of bacteria.

Interested in probiotic supplements? GNC offers a wide range of probiotics for many different gut health goals, from women’s health to immune support. Products include probiotic capsules, gummies, powders, and chewables.
Looking for other ways to support digestive health? Give aloe supplements a try.