image by: https://foodrevolution.org/blog/gut-health/
The microscopic army within you
If you experience digestive symptoms such as constipation,bloating and gas, or your immune system lets
you down,you may be feeling the effects of imbalances within your gut microbiome. Describing the
trillions of bacteria, yeasts and other microorganisms that colonise your digestive tract; these mini
soldiers support health and wellness by regulating your digestive processes, bowel function and immune
health. Restoring balance in the microbiome can help you get on top of your health again!
Infiltrating the area
Speaking of beneficial organisms, you may have heard that taking probiotics can have a positive impact
on your health. A daily multi-strain probiotic formula that contains a handful of carefully selected
organisms can have widespread benefits in maintaining optimal digestive and immune health. The following
bacterial strains work synergistically to maintain everyday health:
Lactobacillus acidophilus (NCFM®): reduces abdominal pain by influencing receptors within the gut,
and supports healthy immunity.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HN001™): has immune boosting properties to reduce chances of infection.
Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis (HN019™): aids gut motility to relieve constipation and keep you
regular.
The great battle of the bugs
Whilst some probiotic strains are effective in maintaining everyday health, there may be instances that
require more of a ‘guns blazing’ approach. Poor diet, stress and overuse of antibiotics are some of the
drivers that can alter the composition of the microbiome, leading to a myriad of digestive and immune
ailments. In these instances,probiotic strains that influence resident gut bacteria and promote
restoration of the microbiome can get you back to your fighting best.Restorative probiotic strains
include Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG®), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (boulardii)(SB) and Bifidobacterium
animalis ssp lactis (BB-12®),which promote the growth and function of your own beneficial gut bacteria
whilst preventing harmful pathogens within the gut.
Nourish your inner army
Whilst probiotics are invaluable in maintaining a healthy microbiome, the following diet and lifestyle
measures also support optimal gut and immune health: Minimise your sugar intake. Eat less canned food,
breakfast cereals, baked goods, desserts, sweetened dairy products, condiments, fruit juices, lollies,
chocolate and fast foods – these often contain sugar which encourages the growth of harmful pathogens
in the gut.
Keep on top of your stress.Have you ever noticed your digestion plays up during stressful periods?
Through a complex network of nerves and tissue, it’s a two way street as the gut and brain communicate
with each other; also influencing your digestive and immune function. Stress busting techniques include
gentle exercise such as yoga and Pilates, regular meditation and ensuring you achieve 7 to 8 hours of
restful sleep each night.
Be mindful of pharmaceutical overuse. Whilst over-the-counter medicines may be required in some
circumstances, unnecessary overuse of these agents may compromise the microbial balance within the
gut.
To ensure victory, strike while the iron is hot!
Investing in good quality probiotics that are specific to your wellbeing can make all the difference in
winning the battle when it comes to gut and immune health. Daily use of a multi-strain probiotic to
maintain optimal balance may give you the fighting-edge to improve digestive health, reduce gut pain
and constipation, and enhance immunity.
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