NutraChamps Blog

Tag: Probiotics

Sweet Treats for Wellness: Exploring the Health Benefits of Various Types of Gummies
Ever wondered how to satiate your sweet teeth and support your health at the same time? The answer may surprise you. It lies in a delightful and chewy form: gummies. Yes, you read it right! Not only youngsters but also adults are actually loving these tasty treats, thanks to an extensive range of gummies loaded with several health advantages.

In this article, we can discover the wellness benefits of various styles of gummies and help you recognize how this fun treat also can make a contribution to your well-being.

Multivitamin Gummies

In a world where we’re always on the go, it may be hard to eat balanced food every day. This is where multivitamin gummies come to help. They are full of a number of crucial vitamins, inclusive of nutrients A, C, D, and E, at the side of numerous B nutrients. They are designed to supplement your eating regimen, filling in any nutritional gaps.

Multivitamin gummies can assist strengthen your immune gadget, enhance energy degrees, and support average fitness. They’re additionally easy to devour, tasty, and often greater appealing than their tablet counterparts. Remember to take them as a part of a balanced weight-reduction plan and now not as a replacement for complete ingredients.

CBD Gummies

CBD, or cannabidiol, gummies have lately won popularity, especially in managing strain, anxiety, and sleep issues. CBD, a compound discovered in hemp flora, has proven promising consequences in enhancing rest and selling higher sleep. These gummies provide a handy, discreet, and tasty way to devour CBD. As an advantage, they are often vegan and free from any artificial colorings or flavors.

Probiotic Gummies

Gut health is essential to average properly-being. Probiotic gummies are a clean way to make sure your intestine flowers remain balanced. They include live microorganisms and yeasts beneficial to your digestive device. Regular consumption can help enhance digestive fitness, boost the immune gadget, or even enhance nutrient absorption from meals.

Collagen Gummies

Collagen is a protein that plays a crucial function in maintaining pores and skin elasticity and joint health. With age, our frame’s collagen manufacturing decreases, leading to sagging pores and skin and joint pain. Collagen gummies can supplement this deficit, contributing to better skin health and joint flexibility.

Health benefits of Gummies

In recent years, wellness gummies have emerged as a fun and flavorful way to maintain good health. They’re easy to consume, portable, and did we mention delicious? But most importantly, they come loaded with vital nutrients to support our overall well-being. With these benefits, they have come up as a good option to maintain health and their marketing is done at every corner to spread awareness. There are multiple brands like Outreach Empress which are specialized in the online marketing of gummies. This help gummies brands to reach their potential customers.

Here are five fabulous health benefits of wellness gummies that you might not have known.
1. Easy to Swallow and Digest
One of the main advantages of gummies over traditional supplements is their ease of consumption. We all have that one friend or family member who cringes at the thought of swallowing pills. For them, and honestly for most of us, gummies are a godsend. They’re soft, chewable, and far easier to swallow. Plus, they’re digested more easily than pills because they’re mostly made up of simple sugars.
1. Packed with Essential Nutrients
Many wellness gummies on the market today are designed to be nutrient powerhouses. They contain a plethora of essential nutrients, like vitamins, minerals, fiber, and even probiotics, tailored to address specific health concerns or support overall health. Whether you want to boost your immune system, improve digestive health, or promote skin health, there’s probably a gummy out there for you.
1. Great for Children and Adults Alike
Wellness gummies aren’t just for adults—they’re also a great way to make sure children receive their daily dose of vital nutrients. It can be a real challenge to convince children to take their vitamins and supplements, especially if they come in the form of hard-to-swallow pills or unpleasant tasting liquids. However, with gummies, you’re essentially offering them a sweet treat that’s also beneficial for their health—now, isn’t that a win-win situation?
1. Boosts Mood and Energy
Ever noticed how munching on gummy candy often lifts your spirits? The same concept applies to wellness gummies. Besides their delightful taste, many wellness gummies are fortified with B vitamins, particularly B12, known to improve mood and energy levels. So, when you’re feeling a bit sluggish, popping a B12-infused gummy might just give you the little pick-me-up you need.
1. Enhances Absorption of Nutrients
Did you know that the human body absorbs nutrients more effectively from gummies than traditional pills? When you chew a gummy, the process of mastication starts to break down the nutrients even before you swallow, increasing their bioavailability. Furthermore, some gummies contain healthy fats, which can enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

In conclusion, wellness gummies are an exciting development in the world of health supplements. They’re flavorful, easy to consume, and deliver a powerful punch of essential nutrients. As always, remember to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle. Your health is your wealth, so make sure to treasure it!
July 14, 2023
The Benefits of Prebiotics for Ultimate Gut Health
Whether you’re a gut health enthusiast or just looking to improve bloating and digestion, prebiotics could make a huge different! Keeping that tummy happy isn’t as difficult as it seems..So let’s dive into the realm of why prebiotics are important for our gut and overall health!

The Power of Prebiotics:

Now, you may be wondering, “What are prebiotics, and why are they so important?” Well, prebiotics are like the unsung heroes of our digestive system. They are a type of dietary fiber that our bodies can’t digest, but they serve as food for the good bacteria in our gut, known as probiotics. By nourishing these friendly bacteria, prebiotics help to maintain a healthy balance in our gut microbiota, which can lead to a plethora of benefits.

Happy Tummies, Happy Lives:

Picture this: You’re at a party, enjoying delicious food and great company. Suddenly, your tummy starts feeling offbeat, and you find yourself doing the uncomfortable “food dance.” Now, imagine a world where this dance is replaced with smooth moves and happy tummies. That’s where prebiotics come in!

By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in our gut, prebiotics can enhance digestion, reduce bloating, and ease discomfort. Foods like bananas, onions, garlic, and asparagus are rich in prebiotics, allowing you to shimmy through life with a content and harmonious tummy.

A Healthy Gut, a Strong Immune System:

Did you know that around 70% of our immune system resides in our gut? It’s true! A diverse and well-balanced gut microbiota can help bolster our immune defenses. By supporting the growth of probiotics, prebiotics can strengthen our immune system, reducing the risk of infections and improving overall health.

You can find prebiotics in various foods, such as whole grains, legumes, and chicory root. Sprinkle some oats on your yogurt, toss chickpeas into your salad, or sip on a cup of hot cocoa made with chicory root. Your immune system will begin to thrive!

Mood-Boosting Benefits:

Have you ever felt a rush of happiness after a satisfying meal? Well, your gut might have had something to do with it! Emerging research suggests that there’s a strong connection between our gut and our brain, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. A healthy gut microbiota can positively impact our mood and mental well-being.

Some prebiotic-rich foods, like dark chocolate and flaxseeds, have been found to enhance the production of feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a square of dark chocolate or sprinkle some flaxseeds on your morning cereal. Your taste buds and your mood will thank you!

In a world where happy tummies are a cherished goal, prebiotics take center stage as the unsung heroes of gut health. By nourishing our friendly bacteria, prebiotics keep our digestive system dancing to a smooth rhythm. From promoting better digestion to supporting a strong immune system and even boosting our mood, the benefits of prebiotics are truly awe-inspiring.

So let’s raise a glass of kombucha and toast to prebiotics—nature’s secret weapon for a happy and harmonious gut. Remember to include prebiotic-rich foods like bananas, onions, garlic, whole grains, legumes, and chicory root in your diet. Your gut and your taste buds will be doing a joyful jig in no time!

Sources:

Gibson GR, Hutkins R, Sanders ME, et al. Expert consensus document: The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP) consensus statement on the definition and scope of prebiotics. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017;14(8):491-502.

Roberfroid M, Gibson GR, Hoyles L, et al. Prebiotic effects: metabolic and health benefits. Br J Nutr. 2010;104 Suppl 2(Suppl 2):S1-S63.

Davani-Davari D, Negahdaripour M, Karimzadeh I, et al. Prebiotics: Definition, Types, Sources, Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications. Foods. 2019;8(3):92. doi:10.3390/foods8030092.
June 5, 2023
Support Your Gut Using Digestive Enzymes
Ah, the mysterious world of the gut—a place where the battle between good and bad bacteria rages on, where food is transformed into fuel, and where a little too much “gurgling” can turn your day into a symphony of discomfort. If you’ve ever suffered from pesky gut issues like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) or other digestive concerns, don’t sweat it! We’re about to introduce you to the superheroes of the digestive system—digestive enzymes! Buckle up, because we’re diving into a world where gut health reigns supreme.

Say hello to NutraChamps and their remarkable digestive enzymes. These little powerhouses are about to change the way you view your gut, with benefits that reach far beyond what meets the eye (or the stomach, in this case).

So, let’s embark on this delightful journey of digestion together..

The Breakdown Masters: Digestive enzymes are like the master chefs of the gut. They specialize in breaking down complex food molecules into smaller, more manageable pieces, ensuring your body can absorb and utilize all the nutrients it needs. Just imagine them as tiny ninjas, slicing and dicing those stubborn proteins, carbohydrates, and fats into easily digestible morsels. With their help, your gut becomes an efficient assembly line, ready to extract every ounce of goodness from your meals.

Bye-Bye Bloating: One of the common gut issues we face is bloating—an unwelcome guest at any dinner party. Digestive enzymes, however, have a knack for taming the bloat. By aiding in the efficient breakdown of food, they reduce the likelihood of undigested particles fermenting in the gut. Translation: less bloating, more comfort, and the freedom to rock your favorite outfits without feeling like you’re smuggling a balloon under your shirt!

Quelling the Gut Symphony: Remember those embarrassing moments when your gut decided to belt out a symphony of gurgles and rumbles? Well, digestive enzymes are here to lend a helping hand (or rather, a helping enzyme). By enhancing the digestion process, they minimize the chance of gas production and reduce those awkward sounds that turn heads faster than a bad haircut. So, bid farewell to the unexpected concert hall in your belly and enjoy the sweet sound of silence!

IBS, Be Gone! IBS can feel like a lifelong battle with your own digestive system, but digestive enzymes can be your trusty sidekick in this fight. Research suggests that certain enzymes, like alpha-galactosidase and lactase, can alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements. So, while IBS may try to rain on your parade, digestive enzymes will be there with an umbrella and a superhero cape, ready to save the day!

Your gut is a fascinating ecosystem, and when it’s happy, you’re happy. By incorporating digestive enzymes into your routine, you can unlock a world of benefits that go beyond just easing digestive discomfort. From banishing bloating to silencing the gut’s symphony, these little superheroes can help you reclaim control over your gut health. And remember, at NutraChamps we offer digestive enzymes to save the day!

Sources:

Ladas SD, et al. (2001). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the importance of enzyme supplementation in celiac patients.

Bijkerk CJ, et al. (2009). Soluble or insoluble fiber in irritable bowel syndrome in primary care? Randomized placebo-controlled trial.

Annaházi A, et al. (2014). A pilot study on faecal MMP-9: a new noninvasive diagnostic marker of colorectal cancer.

Viera Moraes Silva V, et al. (2017). Digestive enzymes supplementation in gastrointestinal diseases.

Adike A, et al. (2021). Efficacy of Digestive Enzymes in Functional Bowel Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
June 1, 2023
Gut Check: The Best Colon Health Supplements
We all know how important it is to take care of our gut health. After all, a healthy gut means a happy life. And when it comes to gut health, the colon plays a vital role. It’s responsible for removing waste and toxins from our body and keeping our digestive system functioning properly. But with the abundance of junk food and unhealthy eating habits, our colon health can take a hit. That’s where colon health supplements come in. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the best colon health supplements and how they can benefit your gut.

The Best Colon Health Supplements:

Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for our gut health. They help restore the natural balance of bacteria in our digestive system, which can be disrupted due to poor diet or medication. Probiotics also improve digestion and boost our immune system. You can find probiotics in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, or take them in supplement form.

Fiber

Fiber is essential for a healthy colon. It helps move waste through our digestive system and prevents constipation. Fiber also feeds the good bacteria in our gut and reduces inflammation. You can get fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in colon health. It helps regulate muscle contractions in the colon, which can prevent constipation and improve bowel movements. Magnesium also reduces inflammation and supports healthy digestion. You can find magnesium in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes help break down food and absorb nutrients in our digestive system. They also reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Digestive enzymes can be found in foods like pineapple, papaya, and ginger, or taken in supplement form.

Colon Cleanse Supplements

Colon cleanse supplements are designed to help flush out toxins and waste from the colon. They typically contain ingredients like psyllium husk, senna leaf, and cascara sagrada, which promote bowel movements and improve digestion. NutraChamps has a colon cleanse supplement that includes these ingredients, as well as aloe vera, licorice root, and ginger. This supplement supports healthy digestion and promotes regular bowel movements.:

Taking care of our colon health is crucial for our overall well-being. Probiotics, fiber, magnesium, digestive enzymes, and colon cleanse supplements are all great options for improving gut health. Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements. And if you’re looking for a high-quality colon cleanse supplement, NutraChamps has got you covered with their effective and natural formula.

Sources:

Hill, C., Guarner, F., Reid, G., Gibson, G. R., Merenstein, D. J., Pot, B., … & Salminen, S. (2014). Expert consensus document. The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics consensus statement on the scope and appropriate use of the term probiotic. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 11(8), 506-514.

Slavin, J. (2013). Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients, 5(4), 1417-1435.

DiNicolantonio, J. J., & O’Keefe, J. H. (2018). Magnesium and vitamin D for constipation: mechanisms and clinical use. Journal of clinical gastroenterology, 52(10), 824-829.

Lomer, M. C., & Parkes, G. C. (2008). The microbiology
May 2, 2023
Healthy Gut, Happy Life: The Importance of Probiotics
Probiotics may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but these little guys are more like superheroes for your gut! Yup, you heard it right – probiotics are the good bacteria that help keep your gut healthy and happy. But what are probiotics, and why are they important? Let’s find out!

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that live in your gut and help to maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in your digestive system. Think of them as the good guys that help fight off the bad guys. They are found in foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods.

Why are probiotics important?

Probiotics have a ton of benefits for your overall health. Here are just a few of them:

Digestive health: Probiotics help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut, which can help to prevent digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.

Boosts the immune system: Believe it or not, your gut health is directly linked to your immune system. Probiotics can help to improve your immune system by increasing the production of antibodies and boosting the activity of white blood cells.

Mental health: Probiotics have been linked to improved mental health by reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.

Skin health: Probiotics can help to improve your skin health by reducing inflammation and improving the overall health of your skin.

So, if you want to feel good from the inside out, it’s important to take care of your gut health, and that’s where probiotics come in!

NutraChamps has got you covered! Now that you know how important probiotics are, you’re probably wondering how you can get more of them into your diet. Luckily, NutraChamps has a couple of products that contain probiotics!

Their super greens contain an impressive 10 billion CFU probiotic blend, and their super greens antioxidant contains a 5 billion CFU probiotic blend!

Probiotics may be small, but they sure are mighty! From improving your digestive health to boosting your immune system, these little guys have a ton of health benefits. So, if you’re looking to improve your overall health, it’s time to start taking care of your gut. Here’s to happy guts and healthy bodies!

Sources:

“What are Probiotics?” Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, health.harvard.edu/nutrition/what-are-probiotics

“9 Health Benefits of Probiotics That You Should Know About.” Healthline, 14 Aug. 2020, healthline.com/nutrition/8-health-benefits-of-probiotics

“Probiotics for Mental Health.” Harvard Health Blog, Harvard Medical School, 14 Apr. 2020, health.harvard.edu/blog/probiotics-for-mental-health-2018052513846

“The Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics in Gut Health.” Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2017, eatright.org/food/vitamins-and-supplements
March 28, 2023
What is Gut Dysbiosis?
Since the early 2000s, there has been more and more talk about the Gut-Brain connection/axis.

Not only that. You also may refer to it as butterflies in your stomach, gut instinct, gut-wrenching, and more to portray different human emotions.

I’ve been particularly interested in this lately because I’ve come across a bunch of literature about the gut-brain connection and how this can affect your mental health. Because of the pandemic and the constant lockdowns, I’ve had time to delve further into this topic, but I’ve also had a lot of time to notice my specific ailments! Some of these include depression, lethargy, anxiety, mood swings, dry skin, acne, and joint pain.

In the past couple of years, I had been self-medicating or covering these issues up with medication, diet changes, and topical creams. Little did I know, these changes, although positive, may not have been the right choices for me. Let’s dig a little deeper into what the gut-brain connection entails and how we can take back our health from the inside-out.

What are Gut Microbes?

We have more bacteria in our gut than we have cells in our body!

The collection of bacteria (as well as archaea and eukarya) colonizing the GI tract is termed the ‘gut microbiota’ and has co-evolved with the host over thousands of years to form an intricate and mutually beneficial relationship. <3

For the most part, we get our bacteria simply from being born vaginally. We would still be exposed to bacteria if born by C-section, but these will be bacteria from the hospital or from the skin.

Factors such as infection, mode of food provision (breastfed or formula), stress, and antibiotic use can also impact how your gut bacteria can influence the brain.

There is a life-long symbiotic relationship between bacteria and the host (your body!).

The number of microorganisms inhabiting the GI tract has been estimated to exceed approximately 10 times more bacterial cells than the number of human cells and over 100 times the amount of genomic content (microbiome) as the human genome! The microbiota offers many benefits to us, through a range of physiological functions such as strengthening your gut integrity or shaping the intestinal epithelium, creating energy, protecting against pathogens, and regulating your immunity.

What might I experience if I have Dysbiosis?

There are three significant categories of dysbiosis: loss of beneficial organisms, excessive growth of potentially harmful microorganisms, and loss of overall microbial diversity.

Many illnesses can result from your homeostatic equilibrium of bacteria being thrown off. This good bacteria helps to keep your gastrointestinal tract healthy and free of potentially pathogenic bacteria.

Any of the disruptions mentioned in the section above could lead to chemical sensitivities, periodontal disease, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, obesity, cancer, colitis, and bacterial vaginosis.

How can I address and repair Gut Dysbiosis?

Diagnosing gut issues can be difficult. Because everything seems to be connected, it is common to be misdiagnosed a few times before getting the correct diagnosis.

I won’t be talking about treatments in this section. Keep reading if you want to learn how to treat Gut Dysbiosis. Instead, I will talk about ways to address it so that you can work toward a healthier gut – whether you decide to go with medical interventions or not (below).

Here’s a list of things you can incorporate everyday as a preventative measure to make sure you are taking good care of your gut:
- Take probiotics or eat fermented foods: Try a nice sauerkraut, a spicy kichi, or a fizzy kefir. If you want to test out a probiotic, anything that is fermented and contains little sugar is a great start.
- Consume prebiotic fiber: This goes really well with probiotics, as it helps to feed the good bacteria in your GI tract. It can be found in foods like asparagus, bananas, whole grains, and garlic.
- Eliminate or decrease sugar consumption: Sugar could be the cause of gut dysbiosis (imbalance of your gut microbes). It feeds the bad bacteria in your gut – this goes for real sugar and artificial sweeteners, because they could negatively impact your blood glucose levels.
- Reduce Stress: Get on a good sleep schedule, get good quality sleep, and reduce environmental and psychological stress.
- Avoid antibiotics: I know that sometimes they are needed, so if you are given them by a doctor to combat a bacterial infection, please take them. However, overuse could lead to long-term problems. Antibiotics are damaging to the gut microbiota and immunity, with some research reporting that even 6 months after their use, the gut still lacks several species of beneficial bacteria.
- Exercise regularly: Of course I would tell you to exercise! It helps everything! It can also help contribute to good heart health and weight loss/maintenance, which has been shown to improve gut health. Aim to move a little bit each and every day.
- Change your products: Some of us may be more sensitive than others, or some of us may not realize the impact that cleaning products and our toiletries can have on our skin or in our bodies. Just like antibiotics, disinfectant cleaning products can also disrupt our gut microbiota.
Treatments

That’s right! You can treat Dysbiosis with medical interventions, but your options are not going to be very glamorous.

Here are 3 options I’ve found through my research that can help treat Dysbiosis:
- Probiotics: This is a great option as a preventative measure as well as a treatment. Probiotics are defined by the World Health Organization as “live microorganisms, which when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”. This is basically the good bacteria our bodies are craving.
One of the major advantages of taking probiotics (for dysbiosis or not) is that they can help to suppress inflammation in your microbiome and disrupt colonization by pathogens (the bad guys!). Not only could probiotics help with dysbiosis, but they can also help those who use excessive amounts of antibiotics, those with IBD, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and many other ailments. However, many of these are related and can cause one another.

Probiotics can help introduce or reintroduce helpful gut bacteria into a weak dysbiotic microbiome. Not only are probiotics great for instituting anti-inflammatory properties, but they also improve your immune cell function.

Probiotics have proven to influence the homeostatic balance of the intestinal microbiota, which is pretty incredible but keep in mind, we all need different amounts and types of probiotics. There is no one size fits all, and you may want to discuss this with your doctor or a naturopath. When I went to see my naturopath for mood imbalances and fatigue, we determined I only needed 1 strain at a dose of 20-50 billion Colony Forming Units (CFU), however, you will find many products in the market that contain up to 100 billion CFU of several different strains.

Two really popular strains are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. You will likely see these added into foods or in supplements.
- Antibiotics: Yes, this is the opposite of what I just wrote in my last point. So why am I suggesting it?
Depending on your body, your doctor may suggest you try a broad-spectrum antibiotic to treat your dysbiosis, especially if it has a low impact on your intestinal gut microbiome.

A popular antibiotic for this is called Rifaximin. Avoid long-term use of antibiotics, as this can cause the opposite of the intended effect and actually destabilize the gut microbiome, resulting in promoting the outgrowth of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria (the bad guys!).
- Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT): That’s right. This is a fecal transplant.
It’s an experimental treatment that has resolved 80-90% of dysbiosis-related infections caused by recurrent C. difficile (a strain of bacteria) infections that do not respond to antibiotics in randomized, controlled clinical trials.

I won’t get too into it, because I don’t think this is a viable solution for many of my readers, but it’s actually a pretty ground-breaking treatment, so I’ll leave a link to more info here. Please speak to a medical professional if you feel you need to go this route.

Conclusion

If you’d like more resources, here are some books you may want to pick up from your local library or book store:
Or these videos! These mention topics I didn’t cover in this blog and are very interesting! A lot of preventative measures are discussed in the following videos.
Resources:
January 26, 2022
Is All Bacteria Bad
Prebiotics and Probiotics… What are they?

Think of some of the greatest dynamic duos: Batman and Robin, Simon and Garfunkle, or Mac and Cheese, Peanut Butter and Jelly… the last two being the greatest in my opinion! Prebiotics are food for Probiotics, so they technically need each other! When taken together, this is known as microbiome therapy. They both support the body in building and maintaining a healthy colony of good bacteria. When taken together, prebiotics and probiotics can help people suffering from diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, allergic disorders, and even the average cold and flu. The great thing is you can take pre-and probiotics to simply be proactive and maintain healthy gut flora.

Pre- and probiotics help to produce good bacteria. In turn, this produces certain substances that acidify the colon and serve as a nutrition source for the colon’s cells. This acidity is exactly what our body needs! The colon provides an oxygen-free environment so this bacteria can grow and produce on-going nutrition. Having a colon that operates maximally has wonderful benefits for the entire body, so let’s get into the difference between the two and why you should be supplementing with both.

PREBIOTICS

Are a type of fiber that the human body cannot digest. They are essential, as they feed the probiotics in order to bump up the health benefits even more! These non-digestible fibers are degraded by gut microbiota.

The two most popular, and most backed by research, are known as inulin and oligofructose. Inulin can be found in wheat, onions, bananas, garlic, leeks, chicory root, artichokes, agave, jicama, and wild yam. Because food industries and agriculture have become more developed in the past few centuries, our food contains less inulin, meaning some of us may need to get our prebiotics from supplements. Not to mention, some of these foods may not be native to our home countries, so they will not be locally sourced or seasonal. In the U.S., most people are not getting enough fiber, and the little fiber they are consuming is from wheat or onions.

Source: https://billioncheers.com/blog/types-of-prebiotics-foods/

PROBIOTICS

These tiny living microorganisms include bacteria and yeast that can help lower the number of bad bacteria in your gut. These bad bacteria can eventually cause illness or inflammation in the body, so it’s important to take probiotics to help replace the bad with the good!

The two most common probiotics found in most supplements or foods are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. There are many foods rich in probiotics, including yogurt, kefir, fermented foods, kombucha, and cheeses like Gouda.

Source: https://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/2019/02/19/gut-health-probiotics-supplement/

3 major benefits-

Improve Mental Health: Research is showing there is a great correlation between gut and brain, so if your gut is unhealthy, your brain might be as well. Probiotics are great for those with depression, anxiety, OCD, and more. For example, researchers are saying the Lactobacillus (L.) rhamnosus can significantly reduce anxiety-like behavior in rodent studies*.
Recover Gastrointestinal health: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes both Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. IBD affects as many as 450 people out of every 100,000 in the United States. The gut microbiota shows an abundance of bacteria linked to inflammation and a decrease in the diversity of bacteria. Having fiber can be painful, and most of the time does more harm than good for those with IBD, so taking a prebiotic can be extremely helpful.
Reduces seasonal allergies: Specifically, Lactobacillus gasseri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium longum were used in a study* for those suffering from hay fever. The probiotic treatment improved hay fever sufferers’ allergy-specific quality of life scores and reduced symptoms in hay fever sufferers who had mild symptoms to begin with.

How much do I need to take?

This all depends! Speak to your doctor or a Naturopath to figure out which specific strains would benefit you. Probiotic supplements can be pricey and not every strain works for every ailment, so find out exactly what you need. Probiotics are tricky, and if you take them sporadically, you may not feel their full benefits. Research shows that 100 million to 1 billion probiotic microorganisms must reach your intestine for you to experience health benefits*. If you are on antibiotics or take a medication that kills off good bacteria, you may be told to take a higher dosage of probiotics to replenish your good bacteria. This is super important in helping you stay healthy and strong and to help fight off infections, inflammation, and the cold and flu.

When should I take it?

There is lots of research out there, and some probiotic manufacturers recommend taking the supplement on an empty stomach. Others will advise you to take it with food. Seeing as different microorganisms and bacteria survive in different conditions, it is safe to say that consistency is most important. Probiotics don’t stay in your gut for long, but having them pass through your body is when you’ll feel the most gains. Aim to take your probiotic at the same time every day as this could actually make them more effective.

Ensuring you are getting enough pre and probiotics from foods can be difficult. Speak to a medical professional about what strains could be right for you. Once you get started, let us know if you have experienced any benefits from your pre and probiotics. Pay attention to all the benefits and not simply those you are trying to treat. You may notice improvements in mood, allergy tolerance, bowel movements, and more! Just remember, not all bacteria are bad! Make sure you’re fighting the bad guys off with the good!

Resources:
January 7, 2021
How You Can Improve Your Nutrient Absorption
With so many people these days experiencing gastrointestinal issues (such as Chrohn’s Disease, colitis, Celiac Disease, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome), and with an increased intake of processed foods, nutrient deficiency seems to be at an all-time high! Even certain pharmaceutical medications seem to inhibit absorption of nutrients. But maximizing your nutrient absorption, whether it be through your diet, through lifestyle changes, or through supplementation (or all of the above), is definitely within your control!

Daily Practices Which Will Increase Nutrient Absorption

They say it takes 21 days to make a habit! Consider implementing some of these daily practices into your diet and lifestyle to maximize nutrient status and overall health. And make them a habit!
- Consuming fresh, organic produce each day is a start. Fruits and veggies have built in phytonutrients, bioflavonoids, and enzymes which support proper utilization and absorption of nutrients within the body. Furthermore, while cooked veggies still have minerals and fiber intact, the antioxidants will be partially destroyed. If you find yourself consuming most of your veggies cooked, consider enhancing your antioxidant status with a whole food supplement such as Resveratrol or Green Tea.
- Avoid consuming proteins and starches together, as they tend to neutralize each other and inhibit digestion. Instead, opt for combining proteins with vegetables, or starches with vegetables. As for fruits, I like to eat them on an empty stomach between meals for maximum absorption. And they make the perfect healthy, yummy snack!
- Eliminate any foods which you feel you may be sensitive or allergic to (which helps to reduce digestive tract damage). An elimination diet can aid in identifying which foods may be causing issues. Some common food sensitivities include wheat, gluten, dairy, soy, corn, and eggs.
- Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake, as these are known to inhibit certain nutrients from absorbing fully.
- Decrease stress and smoking, which are known to deplete the body of Vitamin C and other nutrients.
- A daily bowel movement will help to keep the digestive tract from becoming stagnant and rid the body of toxins produced by intestinal bacteria and yeast (which can inhibit nutrient absorption).
3 Considerations When Choosing and Consuming Supplements

In the face of a poor diet, or even a healthy diet, some may consider using supplements in order to maximize nutrient status. There are three things to consider here: choosing supplements which help aid in nutrient absorption, combining nutrients in order to maximize absorption, and choosing the most absorbable forms of vitamins and minerals.

1. Supplements which aid in nutrient absorption and maximize gastrointestinal health:
- Digestive enzymes come in capsules which can be consumed 15 minutes before meals to allow your body to break down nutrients fully for maximum absorption.
- Probiotics can help to replace the good bacteria in the gut (and decrease the “bad” bacteria and yeast) which aids in nutrient absorption. Good bacteria can be depleted over time with certain medications, such as antibiotics.
2. Remember these vitamin and mineral combination considerations:
- Balance zinc with copper supplementation. Over-supplementation of one can cause depletion of the other. Research shows that toxicities in copper are linked to mental illness.
- Fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K, should be consumed with food for proper absorption (preferably a meal containing healthy fat).
- Water-soluble vitamins, such as B-vitamins and Vitamin C, can be consumed on an empty stomach. Absorption is enhanced if the daily dose is spread out into two or three doses throughout the day since they are water soluble and readily eliminated from the body.
- Iron is absorbed best when taken with Vitamin C (such as a glass of orange juice).
- Calcium should be taken 30 minutes away from other supplements, as it can inhibit the absorption of other nutrients.
- Calcium absorbs and is utilized best when magnesium and Vitamin D status are sufficient. Some calcium supplements are combined with one or both of these.
3. Vitamin and mineral supplementation: “form” matters!

When searching for vitamin and mineral supplements, the least expensive bottles on the shelf are usually not the most absorbable! Here is a list of vitamin and mineral forms to look for to maximize absorption:
- Multivitamin/multimineral supplements: Choose multi’s made from whole foods.
- Vitamin C: Ascerola powder or synthetic Vitamin C with bioflavonoids are absorbed best.
- Vitamin A: The product should have a balance between beta carotene and retinol for maximum absorption.
- B Vitamins: Consider sublingual B12. Other absorbable forms of B vitamins include methyltetrahydrofolate (folic acid), benfotiamine (a fat-absorbable form of thiamine), riboflavin 5′-phosphate (riboflavin), niacinamide (niacin), d-calcium pantothenate (pantothine), and pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (B6).
- Vitamin D: Try to get 20 minutes of sunlight per day on most of your body (your body uses the sun to synthesize its own Vitamin D), or use Vitamin D3.
- Vitamin E: The natural form, d-alpha tocopherol, is best.
- Calcium : Look for calcium citrate or calcium oratate.
- Iodine: Potassium iodide is considered most absorbable.
- Magnesium: Look for topical magnesium oil, or epsom salt (which contains magnesium sulfate – throw it in your bath!). Oral supplementation forms should be magnesium citrate or magnesium glycinate.
- Chromium: Chromium picolinate or chromium nicotinate are considered most absorbable.
- Selenium: Selenomethionine is most absorbable and won’t inhibit Vitamin C absorption as other selenium supplements may.
- Zinc: Zinc picolinate or zinc glycinate are highly absorbable.
I hope these dietary, lifestyle, and supplementation considerations allow you to enhance your own nutrient status! Prevention of nutrient deficiencies can go a long way in preventing certain inflammatory and chronic conditions, giving your body the tools it needs to maintain a healthy immune system, and keeping you energized for many years to come!
January 27, 2017