Unlocking the Potential of Probiotics for Seniors

Probiotics, which are live bacteria and yeasts beneficial for health, particularly the digestive system, offer a range of potential benefits, however, many can be worthless, and how can we be sure that it's not just some company jumping on the bandwagon for profit? I went to Consumer Reports for some answers. But first, here are some valuable reasons to take these supplements. Because your gut flora is highly sensitive to your diet, studies have show that an unbalanced gut flora is linked to numerous diseases.

Probiotics are best from foods.Photo byR.Gerner/Canva

Probiotics help balance the gut microbiota, which can improve digestion and stop common gastrointestinal issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. They are often used to prevent or treat diarrhea, particularly when caused by antibiotics. Antibiotics can kill off both the bad and the good bacteria. Probiotic foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, and kimchi. Always good to eat. Probiotics should not be confused with prebiotics, which are carbs, often dietary fibers, that help feed the friendly bacteria already in your gut.

A healthy gut is closely linked to a strong immune system. Probiotics can help maintain this balance, potentially reducing the risk of infections and boosting overall immunity.

Emerging research suggests that gut health is linked to mental health through the gut-brain axis. Some probiotics may help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress by influencing neurotransmitter production and inflammatory responses. This axis links the body’s central and enteric nervous systems, the latter of which governs digestion. Some research shows that certain microbes in the gut can affect your brain via this axis in both health and disease. These bacteria are part of an emerging field called “psychobiotics”.

a way to better health.Photo byR.Gerner/Canva

Current research indicates that psychobiotics can help treat cognitive and neurological disorders, such as autism, Alzheimers, and Parkinson's disease. Considerable research is continuing to clarify this.

Probiotics may improve skin conditions like eczema, acne, and rosacea by reducing inflammation. Certain strains might help with weight loss and maintenance by affecting metabolism, fat storage, and appetite regulation.

Probiotics can help lower blood pressure and reduce LDL "bad" cholesterol levels, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease. They may also reduce the severity of certain allergies and eczema, especially in children, by it's immune responses.

Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract and vagina, potentially preventing infections like UTIs and bacterial vaginosis. We seniors need to watch out for common UTIs because of their ability to make us very ill. In addition, they can contribute to better oral health by reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth, which may lower the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Probiotics can help improve the absorption of nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, from food. So far, lots of good reasons to eat well and if needed, take probiotics. Now lets find the right ones. I highly recommend you visit Consumer Reports or somewhere you prefer, to better understand what's good and what's bad.

more beneficial foodsPhoto byR.Gerner/Canva

So, how can you identify the legitimate products? Check these things to make sure it's not just a waste of money. You want the real thing. Check their websites and labels.

Independent monitoring companies track each company’s reputation and customer satisfaction. Look for a company with a solid reputation backed by third party monitoring. You only want a company that guarantees their product and offers your money back if you aren’t satisfied. If the company is not willing return your money, that usually means they don’t believe in their own product.

Different than third-party monitoring, third-party testing verifies the quality of the company’s products. Third-party testing is really expensive for manufacturers, since it can actually disqualify entire shipments of pills. But when companies don’t have independent quality control, there is no guarantee that their products are what they claim to be. While the benefits of probiotics are promising, it's essential to note that their effectiveness can vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual health conditions. As always, check with your healthcare provider before starting a probiotic regimen. Hope this helps.

Resources:

https://www.consumereview.org/reviews/probiotics/ Senior Staff writer.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/probiotics-101

Medically reviewed by G. Tinsley, Ph.D., CSCS,*D, CISSN, Nutrition — Written by K. Gunnars, BSc Updated 12/9/2020