the microbiome connection

Microbiome is the new term in the health world. The microbiome refers to all the microbes—bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genes—that live on our bodies and inside us. In reality, we are all mostly microbes! There are 10 microbial cells for every single human cell. Most of these microbes live inside our intestines and colon . . . our gut. This unique ecosystem inside of us affects our overall health and has become a topic of interest for research. This is because it is now understood that imbalances and disruptions to the health of the gut microbiome can affect our mind and mood and can contribute to other diseases, like digestive disorders, yeast infections, asthma, and more. We know there are hundreds of species of bacteria that live in the average human gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and we know these beneficial probiotic organisms are essential for promoting both digestive and immune health, among other benefits.

American Health Strawberry Dairy Free Chewable Probiotics

For digestive and immune systems.* Once-daily formula supplies 5 billion live cultures. Available in Original or KidChewables.

Benefits of Probiotic Organisms

Probiotics help the body in numerous ways, including: • Digestion. Probiotics aid digestion of complex carbohydrates, milk lactose, and proteins. • Nutrient Availability. Probiotics enhance absorption of certain nutrients, including B vitamins. • Yeast Control. Probiotics help suppress overgrowth of yeast, such as candida, in the GI tract. • Promote Immunity. Probiotics encourage an acidic intestinal environment which strongly inhibits undesirable or harmful bacteria and yeasts that can contribute to illness and infection. • Overall GI Health. Probiotics protect and promote the overall health of the GI tract. They encourage balance in the intestinal tract, which supports overall regularity. This action can also help reduce the negative intestinal effects of antibiotics.

Emerald Labs 1-Daily Multi 45+ for Men or Women

Coenzymated multivitamin formula for men 45+ or for women 45+. Fortified with a raw, whole food base, plus pre- and probiotics. Iron-free.

Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast probiotic, has been found to be specifically beneficial for protecting the lining of the GI tract, and preventing diarrhea associated with travel or from antibiotics. • Mood Health & Brain Function. Scientists have discovered the “second brain”—neurons in the GI tract (called the second brain) that communicate like neurons in the brain, resulting in a gut-brain connection. Controlling inflammation in the GI tract and supplementing with probiotics may result in more GI balance and improvement in brain function and symptoms of mild depression.

L. acidophilus, which resides in the small intestine, is probably the most well known of the probiotic strains, but there are many, many more, including B. bifidus, L. kefir, B. longum, L. lactis, and so many more. Yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and other cultured and fermented foods are good sources of beneficial probiotic organisms. Supplements containing concentrated amounts of beneficial probiotic organisms are also available, with formulas offering targeted benefits for infants, seniors, and everyone in between. Prebiotics for the Probiotics

Prebiotics are non-digestible carbohydrates that go through the digestive system and help good bacteria grow and flourish. Basically, they are food for probiotics. Prebiotics are derived mostly from plant fibers and have been shown to improve digestion, enhance the absorption of minerals, strengthen the immune system, and help reduce the likelihood of colorectal cancer. Look for herbal formulas with chicory or triphala, fiber supplements that contain inulin or acacia, or probiotic supplements with FOS added.

Collectively, probiotics and prebiotics help promote balance in the gut and in the microbiome. This can translate into support for your overall health. So take care of your microbiome and support your inner ecosystem to help promote optimum health and well-being. ●

Essential Formulas Dr. Ohhira’s Professional Formula Probiotics

5 year fermented formula. Supplies prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Supports digestive function, immune response, and whole health.*