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The Daily Benefits of Probiotics: Why You Should Take Them Even When You're Healthy
Are you wondering why you should give probiotics to your children or take them daily? Probiotics are live microorganisms that have a positive impact on health. They reside not only in mucous membranes but also on the skin, with the majority living in the gut.
Humans have always been in contact with bacteria, and this exposure starts from conception. Research shows that the womb is not sterile, as once thought, and bacteria increase after birth through the birth canal, breastfeeding, and skin contact.
Bacteria are not just harmful; they also play a crucial, beneficial role. This understanding led to the development of probiotics, which help maintain a balance of good bacteria and support gut health, metabolism, and nutrient absorption.
Probiotics can:
- Protect the body against pathogens
- Stimulate the immune system (70–80% of immunity comes from the gut)
- Promote immune cell production
- Release proteins for immune responses
- Support antibody creation
Studies have shown that regular use of probiotics boosts natural killer cells and reduces the risk of infections like colds, ear infections, and sinusitis.
Though some worry that long-term probiotic use may cause harmful bacterial overgrowth, probiotics do not permanently colonize the gut. They create a temporary environment that encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria while limiting harmful ones.
Research has proven the positive impact of probiotics on immunity. For example, one study found that regular probiotic intake for four weeks significantly increased natural killer cells (specialized immune cells). In a study* with 281 children, a three-month intake of probiotics significantly reduced the risk of:
- Upper respiratory infections, including the common cold
- Pharyngitis
- Sinusitis
- Otitis media (middle ear infection)
- General colds
This illustrates the potential benefits of probiotics for immune function and infection reduction.
The gut also influences immune function in other body areas. Therefore, probiotics can be helpful for infections in the nose and sinuses. Studies show that probiotics can strengthen the immune system, especially specific strains like Lactobacilli.
Imbalances in the gut, caused by stress, poor diet, antibiotics, or lack of sleep, can disrupt healthy bacteria and allow harmful ones to thrive. Daily probiotic intake helps restore and maintain this balance, supporting gut health and preventing potential issues. Regular use promotes long-term well-being by fostering a healthy microbial environment, even when you're not sick.
Check out our selection of probiotics for adults and kids here.
*Source: De Simone, C. et al., 1993. The role of probiotics in modulation of the immune system in man and in animals. Int J Immunother. IX,23–8.