They lower cholesterol and improve bowel function. Professor Stachowska advises which probiotics are worth using

Probiotics are preparations containing beneficial bacteria that condition the proper functioning of many organs. Their use brings a lot of different benefits. It allows to strengthen the immune system and help the body fight infections. It lowers the concentration of “bad cholesterol”, improves digestion processes and increases the absorption of nutrients and minerals from food. Additionally, it has a positive effect on the intestinal microbiota.

What to look for when buying a probiotic?

As noted by Professor Ewa Stachowska from the Pomeranian Medical University, a high-quality probiotic should be well described. Must have a three-part namefor example Saccharomyces Boulardii CNCM I-745 or Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299V. The first part indicates the type of bacteria, the second – the species, and the third – the specific strain. Moreover, placing the full name of the probiotic on the label is a signal from the manufacturer that the strains of probiotic bacteria contained in a given preparation have been clinically tested.

The second very important issue mentioned by Professor Stachowska is expiration date placed on the product packaging. “The shorter the date, the greater the certainty that the probiotics are fresh and effective,” the expert emphasizes in one of the posts published on social media. She also draws attention to another very important aspect. Live bacterial cultures do not like high temperatures.. Therefore, probiotics should be stored in a cool, dark, but dry place, such as a kitchen cupboard.

How to choose a probiotic for your needs?

In this case, as Professor Stachowska points out, much depends on what health problems we are struggling with at a given moment. People who are going on holiday to warm countries or suffer from diarrhea after antibiotic therapy should reach for single-strain probiotics, such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, in large doses.

If our health problems concern other organs (than the intestines – editor’s note), it is better to choose multi-strain probiotics that support different axes: intestine-liver, intestine-lungs, intestine-brain. The most important thing is that probiotics are supported by scientific research, which guarantees their effectiveness and safety – explains the expert.

Multi-strain probiotics are those that contain more than one strain of bacteria. Their task is to comprehensively support the body and intestinal microflora. They are also used in the prevention of various types of diseases.

What are natural probiotics?

Natural probiotics include products such as kefir, buttermilk, natural yogurt, and sour milk. A source of live bacterial cultures are also various types of fermented foods (sauerkraut, pickled cucumbers, etc.). It is worth including these products in your diet, especially during antibiotic therapy and when your body’s immunity is weakened.