Lactobacillus Acidophilus probiotics are live bacteria that help  maintain a healthy gut balance, regulate digestion and promote good bacteria growth. Acidophilus Lactobacillus bacteria can be found in fermented foods such as kefir, kimchi and yoghurt. These probiotics can also be taken as supplements or as ingredients in some foods. Additionally, it is available in supplement form, often as capsules or in combination with other probiotic strains.

The primary health benefit associated with Lactobacillus Acidophilus is to maintain a healthy gut balnce. In addition, they are known to assist in the digestion of lactose, making it beneficial for individuals with lactose intolerance,  promote vaginal health in women, alleviate symptoms of IBS and contribute to the overall balance of the microbiome, supporting various aspects of health.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), probiotics are defined as live micro-organisms, that when taken in adequate amounts,  benefit the host.

Prebiotics are a type of dietary fibre that stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can help improve the functioning of your digestive system. The word prebiotics is derived from the word “pre-”, which means “before”, and “biotic”, which means “life.

Prebiotics and probiotics are both good for gut health but work in different ways. Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in our gut and help us stay healthy and strong. Prebiotics are products that contain non-digestible food ingredients which stimulate the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the colon. They go to the lower digestive tract to help nourish and feed the beneficial bacteria.

There are several different types of prebiotics, including oligosaccharides and inulin. Oligosaccharides are short chains of sugars and fibre that are not digested or absorbed by the body but rather fermented by bacteria in the large intestine. Inulin is a type of non-digestible fibre found in many plants. It is also known as fructooligosaccharide. Prebiotics can be found in food sources such as onions, garlic, chicory root, bananas and apples.

The benefit of taking probiotics and prebiotics together is that they can help to create a healthy gut microbiome. Studies have shown that people who take probiotics and prebiotics together have more diverse gut microbiomes, which can help to improve the immune system and reduce the risk of diseases such as obesity, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also possible that the microbiome may have a role in mood disorders such as depression.

It has been shown that probiotics can help to prevent and treat depression by balancing the gut bacteria. In addition to the gut microbiome, there is also evidence suggesting that gut bacteria can affect the brain directly by releasing neurotransmitters or hormones into our bloodstream. This could lead to changes in behaviour, memory function and cognitive performance. It is possible that the gut microbiome has a role in chronic pain conditions. It has been shown that probiotics can help treat irritable bowel syndrome, which can also lead to chronic pain.

In conclusion, incorporating probiotics with prebiotic support into your daily routine can significantly contribute to overall health and well-being. These live bacteria play a crucial role in maintaining a harmonious balance in the gut, regulating digestion, and fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria.  As endorsed by the World Health Organisation, the benefits of probiotics extend beyond digestive health, encompassing reduced lactose intolerance, improved mood, and diminished cravings.

The specific advantages of Lactobacillus Acidophilus probiotics include the potential to ease symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Research has shown a positive impact on individuals with functional bowel disorders, noting a reduction in bloating after incorporating these probiotics into their routine. Furthermore, the synergy between probiotics and prebiotics proves to be a powerful combination for promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Prebiotics, in the form of non-digestible fibres found in various foods, stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon. When used in conjunction with probiotics, this dynamic duo enhances the diversity of the gut microbiome, thereby bolstering the immune system and potentially mitigating the risk of diseases such as obesity, constipation, and IBS.