Nordic Probiotic Blend
Also known as: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Saccharomyces boulardii, Beneficial bacteria, Gut flora, Probiotics
Overview
Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. Commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, probiotics support gut health and bolster immune function. A significant aspect of their efficacy relies on their ability to survive digestion, colonize the gastrointestinal tract, and promote a healthy microbiome. Extensive research, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, supports the beneficial impacts of probiotics, particularly in gut health, immune modulation, and some allergic conditions. The current body of evidence regarding probiotics is of high quality, affirming their role as an impactful consideration in dietary and health interventions.
Benefits
Probiotics provide several evidence-backed benefits primarily focused on gastrointestinal health, immune support, and potential alleviation of allergic reactions. Notably, they significantly reduce the risk of severe necrotizing enterocolitis and late-onset sepsis in preterm infants (RR 0.57), indicating their protective role in this vulnerable population. In children with acute gastroenteritis, probiotics can reduce diarrhea duration (MD -0.83 days). Additionally, they exhibit antioxidant properties, enhancing serum total antioxidant capacity and reducing oxidative stress markers. Probiotics also alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis, improving quality of life scores (SMD -0.64). These benefits may vary in efficacy based on strain, dosage, and individual health conditions.
How it works
Probiotics function by modulating the gut microbiota and enhancing the intestinal barrier's integrity. They produce antimicrobial substances, compete with pathogens for intestinal adhesion, and promote anti-inflammatory cytokine production. The interaction with the gastrointestinal, immune, and endocrine systems also influences systemic inflammation and immune responses. Probiotics specifically target pathways involved in inflammation and antioxidant defense, with effects primarily localized in the gastrointestinal tract due to their non-absorption into the bloodstream.
Side effects
Probiotics are generally safe for most individuals, but they can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal discomforts such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain in over 5% of users. Less common side effects include diarrhea and constipation, occurring in about 1-5% of cases. Rarely (<1%), serious adverse effects such as infections may occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, emphasizing the need for caution in these populations. While significant drug interactions are uncommon, those using immunosuppressive medications should be vigilant. Probiotics are contraindicated in people with severe immune deficiencies or critical illnesses, and special populations like pregnant women should consult healthcare professionals before use.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for probiotics varies based on strain and intended health benefits, typically ranging from 1 to 10 billion CFU per day. For gastrointestinal issues, dosages in this range are common, while studies on allergic rhinitis have utilized 1 to 5 billion CFU daily. Although there is no strict upper limit, doses exceeding 10 billion CFU daily are less frequently investigated. Probiotics can be taken at any time, though co-administration with food may enhance their survival through the digestive tract. Forms of probiotics include capsules, powders, and fermented foods, with absorption dependent on their ability to endure gastric acid and bile salt exposure.
FAQs
Are probiotics safe for everyone?
Probiotics are generally safe for most people, but individuals with compromised immune systems or severe medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider.
What is the best time to take probiotics?
Probiotics can be taken at any time, but consuming them with food may enhance their survival in the digestive tract.
What benefits can I expect from probiotics?
Benefits may include improved gut health, relief from allergic rhinitis symptoms, and enhanced antioxidant status, depending on the specific condition treated.
Are all probiotics the same?
No, different probiotic strains have unique effects and are suited for different health conditions, making specific strains more effective for particular uses.
Research Sources
- https://karger.com/neo/article/112/1/9/231554/The-Golden-Age-of-Probiotics-A-Systematic-Review – This systematic review and meta-analysis compiled data from 44 studies on probiotics' effects in reducing severe necrotizing enterocolitis and late-onset sepsis in preterm infants. Key findings demonstrated a significant decrease in NEC rates (RR 0.57) and overall mortality (RR 0.77), supporting probiotics' protective role in vulnerable populations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33016089/ – The study is a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the antioxidant effects of probiotic and synbiotic supplementation in adults. Results showed significant increases in serum total antioxidant capacity, glutathione, and nitric oxide levels, alongside reductions in malondialdehyde, highlighting probiotics' role in enhancing antioxidant defenses.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2022.848279/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the effects of probiotics in allergic rhinitis, involving 28 studies. It confirmed probiotics' effectiveness in reducing symptoms as evidenced by significant improvements in Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire scores and enhancing the Th1/Th2 ratio.
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