22 May Why You Need a Probiotic Supplement this Winter

Most of us think of probiotics as things we only need to get our bodies back in balance once we’re already ill, and have reluctantly started taking a course of those nasty but all-too-common antibiotics. But did you know that a probiotic supplement can actually stop you getting sick in the first place? Probiotics can protect you against viruses like colds and ‘flu – the bugs which can turn into sinus, chest or throat infections that will land you stuck in bed taking antibiotics.

Here’s how a probiotic supplement works to keep you healthy and stop viruses from attacking your system.

Your Personal Probiotic Army

Our bodies contain around 1 trillion (yes, trillion!) bacteria; that’s ten times the number of cells in the body. Most of these bacteria are found in the gut. Needless to say, this makes your digestive tract a complex and delicate ecosystem, which must be kept in balance to maintain good health.

This is where probiotics come in; they encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria, creating an inhospitable environment for pathogenic (harmful) bacteria, parasites and yeasts.

Beneficial Bacteria in Action

The beneficial microbes produced with the help of probiotics fight disease in the following ways:

• Good bacteria surround and neutralise the virus while it’s still in your intestinal tract.
• The good bacteria form a barrier along your intestinal lining, which prevents the virus from passing into your bloodstream.
• If the virus does get into your bloodstream, the beneficial bacteria prompt your body to produce substances that neutralise it before it starts causing harm.
• Probiotics also help your body to produce certain vitamins, which are needed to keep your immune function strong.

Overall, probiotics act like an army, coming to your defense and reducing the occurrence and severity of common winter bugs.

Natural Sources of Probiotics

• Natural yoghurt
• Kombucha
• Sauerkraut
• Raw apple cider vinegar
• Miso soup

While there are many probiotic-rich foods available today, remember that cooking and pasteurisation can render them less effective or even ineffective. Taking a natural, high quality probiotic supplement can ensure that you’re getting what your body needs.

Introducing Efficient Microbes

Our brand-new range of probiotic supplements, Efficient Microbes, is a selection of top-quality, 100% natural multi-species beneficial bacteria blends. The EM range includes a probiotic formula for you and your family, as well as your beloved pets – there’s even a probiotic blend to improve the condition of your garden.

Probiotics & Antibiotics

Antibiotic medication helps to clear up bacterial infections, because they kill off harmful bacteria. However, antibiotics wipe out the good bacteria along with the bad, disrupting the balance of your gut and causing digestive problems like gas, bloating or diarrhoea. A probiotic supplement will combat these side effects by restoring the balance of beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacteria.

Prevention is always better than cure, so be sure to get your daily dose of probiotics this winter and keep those nasty infections and costly doctor’s visits at bay.