{"id":5218,"date":"2016-01-13T14:49:09","date_gmt":"2016-01-13T19:49:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog-well.ca?p=5218"},"modified":"2026-07-03T12:01:00","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T16:01:00","slug":"probiotics101","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/well.ca\/blog\/probiotics101\/","title":{"rendered":"Probiotics 101"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background_image_as_pattern=”without_pattern”][vc_column][vc_column_text]From hearing about them on yogurt commercials to seeing them mentioned on health food blogs, chances are you’re seeing probiotics pop up everywhere! But\u00a0what exactly are they, and why should you consider adding them to your diet? Read on as we give you the 101 on probiotics.<\/p>\n

What are Probiotics and How Do They Work?<\/h4>\n

Probiotics are live\u00a0microorganisms (usually bacteria) that are similar to the types of “good” bacteria that are naturally found in our bodies. They help maintain a healthy digestive system and immune system, protect our bodies from harmful bacteria, alleviate health conditions like IBS. Some research even suggests that probiotics can boost brain function and prevent UTIs and yeast infections.<\/p>\n

In healthy condition, the\u00a0human gut contains billions\u00a0of of bacteria that help our bodies break down food, protect us from harmful bacteria, and even helps to support our immune system. But because of factors\u00a0stress, medicines (like antibiotics), and a less than ideal diet, these “good” bacteria aren’t always present at the numbers that they should be for optimal health – and that’s why we turn to probiotics! Whether you opt to add more probiotic rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, and kimchi to your diet, or decide to take\u00a0a probiotic supplement<\/a>, probiotics are key to maintaining good overall health.<\/p>\n

Who Should Take Probiotics?<\/h4>\n

Remember to talk to your health professional about what’s right for you before adding new\u00a0supplements to your diet. Most of us can\u00a0benefit from making sure that our digestive systems are properly, in balance, but you should make a point of talking to your doctor, naturopath, or nutritionist about supplementing your diet with probiotics if:<\/p>\n